Issuu

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

Restoring

HOPE

for People with Herniated & Bulging Discs

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South Denton - Corinth Hickory Creek - Lake Dallas

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SCAN THE QR CODE to find our monthly lunches and networking, coffee, and ribbon cuttings

3201 Tower Ridge Dr., Corinth, TX 76210

940.497.3097 LakeCitiesChamber.com

Our annual “Discover Lake Cities Tour” with our Mayors was July 30. A big thanks to Atmos, our Title Sponsor of this event, Roadrunner Charters and all of our amazing sponsors.

August Meeting

Our Mission —

October 31, 2026

Hickory Creek Pickleball courts Your paragraph text

1050 Ronald Reagan Ave

register for competitive or intermediate mens and womens, or recreational coed brackets: https://swishtournaments.com/product/ guns-n-hoses-tournament/ Y our paragraph text

At our August luncheon, EQ Strategist, Hiba Tanvir, introduced the power “Performing at Your ZEST”.

The Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce welcomes, promotes, and supports area businesses that are committed to enhancing the quality of life in the Lake Cities area.

Ribbon Cutting

Member of the Month Wendy Braswell, Catholic Charities Fort Worth Sponsored by

Point Bank

Texas Golf Social, an indoor golf simulator in Corinth, TX

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

Beyond the Pink Ribbon — Showing Up for Women

Why Your Vote Matters — County Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell

5 Things to Try: Wellness Studios

ON THE COVER

Fall Fashion Guide 2026

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION & CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

Funnel Cakes at Home — Recipe from How to Feed a Loon

Feeling Festive? Fall Festivals

Bonnie & Clyde Days Celebrates Movie’s History in Pilot Point

Nonprofit of the Month Children’s Advocacy Center

10 HOT Wellness Rituals

Romantic OKC Getaway — Travel with Terri

Denton — Halloween Capital of Texas

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Grown Ups’ Night Out at the State Fair ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 5

KELLY MURRAY Publisher, Murray Media & Marketing kelly@murray-media.com Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Fall Forward Cooler Days & Local Adventures Are Waiting Around the Corner

s we turn the calendar to September, I think it’s safe to say we’re all ready for a little relief from the Texas heat. While summer gave us plenty of sunshine and memories, there’s something about the first hints of fall that make this one of my favorite times of year. Cooler mornings, Friday night football, pumpkin-flavored everything, and community festivals are just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited. This month’s issue is packed with ways to help you make the most of the season. We’ve rounded up some of the best local fall festivals happening across Denton County, so grab your calendar and start planning those family weekends. We also take a look at why our area proudly embraces its reputation as a Halloween Capital of Texas, with festive events, decorations, and family-friendly fun that bring our communities together each autumn. Our Nonprofit of the Month is the Children’s Advocacy Center or North Texas, an organization doing truly life-changing work for children and families in our community. If you’ve ever had the opportunity to visit their facility or learn more about their mission, you know just how remarkable they are. Their compassionate team provides hope, healing, and advocacy for children who have experienced abuse, ensuring they receive the support they need. We encourage you to read their inspiring story and consider how you can support their important work. As always, I hope you’ll continue supporting the local businesses, restaurants, and nonprofits that make Denton County such a special place to call home. Every purchase, every volunteer hour, and every act of kindness strengthens our community. Here’s to cooler days ahead, exciting fall adventures, and making the most of everything our hometowns have to offer. Happy September!

With Gratitude,

Kelly Murray

Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne Advertising Inquiries sales@murray-media.com Production Graphic Designers Randee Paraskevopoulos | Lead Designer Shannon Robb Steve Wulf Ronny Duwe Writers Craig Hewitt Steve Gamel Photography Miranda Longoria Photography LaLa Photography Letters

South Denton Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email artwork@murray-media.com. All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media & Marketing.

Editorial Inquiries Call (972) 899-3637 or email editor@murray-media.com Murray-Media.com 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 South Denton Living is published monthly by Murray Media &

Marketing. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reﬂect the opinion of the publisher. South

Denton Living is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content.

Scan to see 2026’s Best of Denton County Winners

6 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

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Beyond

the pink ribbon by Madison Reid

reast cancer awareness has become almost synonymous with October. Pink ribbons appear everywhere, buildings light up in pink, and we’re reminded to schedule mammograms and know our risk. Those reminders matter. But awareness doesn’t have to stop at wearing pink. A breast cancer diagnosis doesn’t happen to one person in isolation. It affects spouses, children, parents, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and entire communities. Doctors and medical teams provide the treatment, but the people surrounding a patient provide something just as important: a village.

Be the Friend Who Shows Up When someone you love shares a cancer diagnosis, it can be difficult to know what to say. We worry about saying the wrong thing, so sometimes we say nothing at all. Start with something simple: “I’m here.” You don’t need to find the perfect words or make the diagnosis sound less frightening than it is. Avoid comparisons, unsolicited advice, or stories about someone else you know who had cancer. Instead, listen. Let your friend decide how much she wants to talk about cancer, and remember LiveLocalMagazines.com

that she is still the same person she was before the diagnosis. Then, show up. Offer something specific instead of saying, “Let me know if you need anything.” Take dinner. Drive her to an appointment. Pick up the kids. Walk the dog. Send a funny text. Invite her to lunch without making cancer the entire conversation. And don’t stop after the initial wave of support. Treatment can last for months, and the emotional impact doesn’t necessarily end when treatment does. Keep checking in. Keep inviting her. Keep being her friend.

support tangible in our own communities through transportation, meals, financial assistance, counseling, support groups, and other practical help. Before donating, look at what an organization actually does and where its money goes. Then consider giving your time, too. A fundraiser, volunteer shift, meal delivery, or simple act of support can make a difficult season a little easier. Because research may lead to tomorrow’s breakthrough, but a meal delivered tonight helps a family get through tonight. The pink ribbon is a symbol. Community is what turns awareness into action.

Choose Your Words With Care Language matters. Not everyone wants to be called a “warrior” or told to “fight.” Not everyone wants to hear that they need to “stay positive.”

KEEP IT ON YOUR RADAR

Follow the person’s lead. The goal isn’t perfect terminology. It’s making sure someone feels seen rather than defined

Follow recommended screening guidelines.

by a diagnosis.

Support the Village National organizations fund research, provide education, advocate for access to care, and offer resources for patients and families. Local organizations can make that

Know your family history and personal risk.

Pay attention to changes and speak up. Bring breast health into the open—talk about it. Support someone you love by showing up.

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 7

Nonprofit of the Month

Providing a Safe Space How Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas Brings Hope, Healing, and Justice to Abused Children

by Craig Hewitt photos courtesy of Briana Gallegos

s with any conscientious community, we look for every possible way to protect our children. We teach our children about “stranger danger,” but what if

abuse comes from within the very place they call home? For non-offending parents and caregivers, knowing where to turn can make an unthinkable situation more manageable. This is where Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas steps in, offering child-focused, trauma-informed support and guidance for children and family members. Serving Denton, Wise, and Jack Counties, the nonprofit coordinates child-abuse inves-

tigations while providing forensic interviews, family advocacy, therapy, and prevention education. Although the organization plays an essential role in the broader criminal-justice response, it remains a neutral party. Its focus is not prosecution, but on creating a

safe, supportive environment where children and families can begin to heal. CREATING A SAFE SPACE Approximately 97% of victims served at

the Children’s Advocacy Center know their alleged perpetrator. The cases coordinated

through the Center involve felony level crimes against children, and about 64%

involve allegations of child sexual abuse. Yet, despite the frequency with which these cases affect local families, many people still underestimate the scope of the problem. “I wish people knew how often kids walk through our doors,” said Brianna Gallegos, the Volunteer and Marketing Manager. “It affects more children than people realize.” On any given day, an average of nine children are seen by the Center. Rather than being confronted or pressured, children are encouraged to speak freely, using open-ended questions in a setting designed to help them feel safe. A forensic interview is often the first step after a child-abuse report has been made. Conducted by a specially trained, neutral professional, the interview is a child-sensitive conversation designed to gather factual information related to allegations of abuse or exposure to violence. Interviewers build rapport and clarify their role for a child who may be afraid, anxious, or confused.

coordinating with law enforcement, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, prosecutors, medical providers, and other partners. This collaborative effort helps prevent families from having to navigate a complex system alone and reduces the number of times a child may need to recount a traumatic experience. The goal is to give children a space to share what they experienced without fear of getting in trouble or worrying about how others may react. “When you look at child abuse cases 20 or 30 years ago, it was so difficult to prosecute offenders and advocate for children,” Gallegos shared. “Now, the first question that is considered is, ‘What does this child need to heal?’” That guiding question represents a significant shift from systems that once operated more independently. Today, collaboration helps ensure that investigation, advocacy, therapy, and family support can move forward together, all while safeguarding the child’s wellbeing.

HEALING BEGINS WITH SUPPORT After an interview, a family advocate becomes a vital point of contact for the family or caregiver. The Center provides therapy to children and non-offending family members

A COORDINATED PATH FORWARD

Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas operates through a multidisciplinary model, 8 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

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at no cost. This support recognizes that child abuse affects more than one person. Caregivers, too, may need help processing trauma, tackling uncertainty, and learning how to best support a child’s recovery. Through therapy, advocacy, and practical guidance, families begin to understand what comes next. Advocates educate families about available services, provide ongoing communication, and help connect them with resources and therapeutic support. Weekly case reviews help the team coordinate care and stay beside them through the entire healing process.

PREVENTION BEGINS WITH AWARENESS Prevention education is another crucial part of their mission. Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas works with Denton and Lewisville Independent School Districts, bringing programming and conversations about child safety to students, educators, and caregivers. A staggering one in 10 children experience abuse before age 18, and only one in 10 children who experience abuse, report it. For parents, educators, and other trusted adults, paying attention to behavioral changes and creating room for honest conversation can open a door for a child who may

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not know how to ask for help. If you suspect abuse, the appropriate response is to report it to law enforcement or contact the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1(800) 252-5400 or online at txabusehotline.org.

Scan the QR Code to learn more or get involved with the Children's Advocacy Center for North Texas.

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 9

DENTON COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 3 BOBBIE MITCHELL

Why Your Vote Matters! I

Turnout was highest among white nonHispanic voters (66.6%) in Texas and lower among Black (57.7%), Asian (52.3%) and Hispanic (44.5%) voters.

n the most recent primary runoff elections for Republican and Democrat races, just over 10 percent (70,805) of the 671,987 registered voters in Denton County cast their ballots.

In 2022, the gaps between women and men voters were highest in the white, nonHispanic and Black communities. Likewise, they were highest among the age ranges 75+, 45-64, and 25-44.

This indicates that 1 out of every 10 individuals who can vote did so. Why does that matter? As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Simply put, 90 percent of those who can have say are allowing 10 percent to make decisions that affect the lives of everyone. Here are several reasons why it is important to vote: Voting facilitates change. It is your chance to make a difference and contribute to the common good. Voting is the Pillar of Democracy. When people participate, elected leaders are more motivated to listen and represent their interests. Voting is a Right and a Historical Milestone. Many worked hard to gain the privilege to vote. Don’t take it for granted. Every Vote Counts. Important elections are often decided by small margins. The possibility of influencing an election is more likely than you might think. Voting selects Decision-Makers. Your Selection(s) could impact quality of life and the direction of society.

connect with us.

Voting sustains our Way of Life. Democracy thrives when citizens participate fully – with voting and through their outreach to elected officials. Voting Drives Policy Changes. When you vote, you are letting people know what kind of policies you want enacted. In 2024, an estimated 91.3 million women voted In the presidential election compared to 82.6 million men. More women than men voted across all races from white, non-Hispanic to Black, Asian to Hispanic. In fact, more women than men have voted in each national election since 1984, according to Census Bureau data. In Texas, an estimated 6.03 million women and 5.40 million men voted in the November 2024 election. A higher percentage of Texas women (59.9%) voted than men (55.9%), voted in the November 2024 election, mirroring national trends.

In recent elections, among Asian American, Black, Hispanic, and white voters, the number of women voters has exceeded the number of male voters. The gender gap in voter turnout rates is the largest for Black voters. Women have also voted at higher rates than men among Hispanic and white voters in all presidential elections since the 1980s. Among Asian American/Pacific Islander voters, there is no consistent gender gap in voter turnout, according to the Center for American Women and Politics. You can find election information on your local county government website. The Denton County website for all things election-related is VoteDenton.com. The State also provides election-related information at VoteTexas.gov. Why should you vote? In a runoff election on June 4 earlier this year between two candidates for the Denton County Commissioner Precinct 4 seat, the race was decided by 31 votes. That is Why Your Vote Matters.

If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. Be sure and connect with me and with Denton County on Facebook with the QR codes. bobbie.mitchell@dentoncounty.com | 972.434.4780

10 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

Denton County

Bobbie Mitchell LiveLocalMagazines.com

THINGS

Wellness Studios A

s the summer sizzle finally makes way for some more comfortable weather, fall is the perfect season to make personal wellness a priority. Whether you’re craving restorative bodywork, a confidence-boosting skin treatment, or a healthy new fitness routine, these local wellness studios offer you an inviting reset close to home. by Craig Hewitt

Alpha Women’s Wellness

Woodhouse Spa

124 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100, Bartonville alphawomenswellness.com

4081 Waller Creek R120, Highland Village woodhousespas.com

Alpha Women’s Wellness in Bartonville offers a more personal kind of healthcare, one that looks beyond symptoms to the whole person. Led by nurse practitioners, the practice blends functional and conventional medicine with support for hormones, menopause, thyroid health, weight management, gut health and aesthetics. IV therapy and ozone sauna sessions add restorative options, while attentive, individualized care makes patients feel heard.

With four locations in the DFW area, Woodhouse Spa turns an ordinary self-care day into a full sensory escape. Guests can choose from massage, advanced facials, body treatments, nails, waxing and thoughtfully curated spa packages in a luxurious environment. Located at The Shops at Highland Village, Woodhouse remains a favorite for its polished atmosphere, attentive service, and signature treatments.

NICHÉ Skin Studio 2681 MacArthur Blvd., Ste. 305, Lewisville | niche.glossgenius.com For those ready to put their best face forward, NICHÉ Skin Studio pairs luxury with precision. They specialize in advanced rejuvenating facial treatments, cosmetic permanent makeup, med-spa injectables and body therapies. From expertly designed brows and lip blush to collagen-focused skincare, their novel approach helps clients enhance their natural features while enjoying a soothing, confidence-building experience.

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Essence Massage Studio

4325 Windsor Centre Trail, Ste. 450, Flower Mound | essencemassagedayspatx.com A Best of Denton County winner, Essence Massage Studio brings a highly personal touch to restoration. Its licensed therapists provide customized therapeutic, deep-tissue and sports massage, lymphatic drainage, yoga, meditation, and a fully integrative wellness experience. A family-operated, woman- and minority-owned practice, Essence stands out for its thoughtful care tailored to each guest.

Inspire Yoga 1401 Shoal Creek, Ste. 268, Highland Village & 321 West Hickory St., Ste. 104, Denton inspireyoga.com With two locations in Denton County, Inspire Yoga makes movement feel welcoming, energizing, and attainable at every level. The studio offers hot (Bikram) and non-heated classes focused on strength, balance, and mindfulness, paired with private lessons and yoga teacher training. Its varied flows, supportive instructors, and award-winning reputation make it an easy choice for beginners and seasoned yogis alike.

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 11

10 Hot

Wellness Rituals to Add

by Craig Hewitt

dding a new wellness routine to your schedule does not have to mean a dramatic overhaul or an expensive retreat. Often, it begins with one small promise to yourself: a class on your calendar, a few mindful minutes during the day, or an evening spent fully present with people you love. This fall, consider fitting one of these 10 wellness rituals into your life.

Get Moving Once a Week

Trade the “I’ll work out when I can” mindset for a weekly class you genuinely anticipate. Book a yoga flow, Pilates session, spin class, strength workout or dance-fitness class at the same time each week. The familiar faces, instructor encouragement and uplifting playlist can turn working out from a chore into a welcome appointment with yourself.

Step Outside Each Day

Autumn in North Texas offers a brief but beautiful invitation to get outdoors. Take a 15-minute walk after lunch, stroll through your neighborhood at sunset, or bring your dog along for a loop around a nearby trail. Take in the cooler air, golden light and changing pace of the season. A daily outdoor break offers a simple mental reset between meetings, errands, and family commitments.

Give Evenings a Softer Landing

Create a bedtime routine that signals to your body that the day is winding down. Put the phone on its charger outside the bedroom, dim the lights and choose a calming replacement: a few pages of a novel, herbal tea, a warm shower or gentle stretches beside the bed. Even 20 screenfree minutes can transform the transition from a busy day to restful sleep.

12 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

Try a Five-Minute Mindfulness Pause

Mindfulness does not require a mountain retreat or an hour of perfect stillness. Sit in a favorite chair, close your eyes and follow five slow breaths from beginning to end. Use a guided meditation, listen to a calming soundscape or simply notice the hum of your home. This brief pause can create space between the demands of the day and your response to them.

End the Day With Gratitude

Keep a small journal and pen on the nightstand, then write down three moments worth remembering before you sleep. They may be as simple as your child’s joke at dinner, a helpful coworker, a kind text or gesture, or the first cool morning of the season. Over time, this practice helps focus your thoughts on the things you appreciate in life, even on hectic or difficult days. LiveLocalMagazines.com

to Your Routine This Fall 6.

Put Connection on the Calendar

The strongest routines are rarely built alone. Plan a monthly coffee date with a friend, start a neighborhood hobby group, or connect virtually with long distance friends and family members. Treat that time as seriously as a business meeting. Meaningful connection gives us a place to laugh, listen and remember that support is often just one conversation or interaction away.

Schedule Restorative Body Care

Think of body care as maintenance, not an occasional luxury. A monthly massage can ease the tension held in your shoulders after long workdays, while acupuncture, a facial, sauna session or assisted stretch appointment can become a refreshing reset. Choose the treatment that fits your needs, and make it a meaningful part of your monthly calendar. LiveLocalMagazines.com

Be More Mindful With Your Meals

Start with one meal each day that is enjoyed slowly and without distractions. Assemble a bright lunch with crisp greens, roasted vegetables, lean protein and a satisfying grain, or gather the family for a distraction-free dinner. Light a candle, set the table, slow down and enjoy the meal. Nourishment feels different when it’s not treated like simply checking a box.

10.

Keep a Weekly Joy Appointment

Schedule an hour for something that asks nothing of you except your presence. Browse a local bookstore or library, plant herbs in the garden, paint, bake, or take a beginner class to learn a new skill. Call it a joy appointment and keep it. In a culture that constantly demands productivity, pleasure is not a distraction; it is part of a life well lived.

Create Space for Reflection

A spiritual routine can be deeply personal and wonderfully simple. It may mean attending a service, reciting a prayer during an early-morning walk, reading poetry over a cup of tea, or spending a few quiet moments in nature. Choose a consistent time that feels natural, then protect it. This gentle practice offers perspective, relaxes your mind, and brings clarity to your thoughts.

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 13

A Scary Good Time

Denton Does Halloween Like Nowhere Else in Texas

by Craig Hewitt | photos courtesy of Denton Halloween social media

n Denton, Halloween is no longer reserved for one spooky night. Officially recognized as the Halloween Capital of Texas, Denton treats guests to a fullfledged, monthlong spectacle as historic downtown facades, restaurants, shops, and gathering places break out the decorations, transforming this artsy town into a macabre masterpiece. Drawing over half million visitors from all corners of North Texas and beyond, the appeal is simple: why celebrate Halloween for a few hours one night when you can enjoy it for 31 straight days? Billed as the 31 Days of Denton Halloween, the October calendar is filled with more than 300 events, ranging from harvest festivals, outdoor movie screenings, and autumn art markets to haunted tours, costume parties, and Halloween-inspired food-and-booze crawls. New events are added regularly, so even repeat visitors can build a different itinerary each visit. In fact, there is so much to see and do that it’s worth coming up with a plan. Visit DiscoverDenton.com to see the official calendar and use it to plan your day or evening.

RULE #1: START AT THE SQUARE The historic downtown square provides

the most logical base camp for a one-day visit. Most Halloween happenings are

concentrated within roughly 1.5 walkable square miles of downtown, so visitors can park once and spend more time

experiencing Denton rather than driving between destinations.

Begin with a slow lap around the Courthouse-on-the-Square, where seasonal

decorations adorn shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars set the scene. Here, you can pick up Halloween merchandise or

inquire about a haunted-history tour at the Discover Denton Welcome Center at 325 W. McKinney St.

The city’s artists and planners help shape the celebration’s distinctive personality, making the experience feel less like a

fall festival and more like stepping into a community art project.

Then choose your mood. Families with

young children can plan around daytime markets and creative activities, but stay until twilight to witness how the square

comes alive. Adults and older teens may

14 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

prefer an evening itinerary built around a

themed dinner, live music, spooky-themed cocktails, or one of Denton’s theatrical or after-dark events.

RULE# 2: DON’T MISS THE BIGGEST ATTRACTIONS If time is limited, target a signature event

rather than trying to conquer October in a single trip. Denton’s Day of the Dead

Festival is among the month’s marquee experiences. This year, the celebration begins Saturday, October 24, and ex-

pands across the weekend with community programming, streetside vendors,

and multicultural festivities in downtown

Denton. Learn more at DentonDayoftheDeadFestival.com.

The event is especially known for its color-

ful blend of music, art, and tradition. Highlights include the delightfully unconven-

tional Coffin Races, the lantern-lit twilight

parade, and Cirque du Horror — Denton’s original Halloween-inspired cabaret. The

result is an experience that captures Denton at its creative best: playful, theatrical, and wonderfully quirky.

Along McKinney Street near City Hall,

you’ll find the Scary Chairy Orchard — a LiveLocalMagazines.com

public art installation of cleverly decorated, Gothic-themed chairs, the Garden of Villains, and the Maze. These attractions run throughout the month of October, offering an easy side excursion with plenty of playful photo opportunities. For more information, visit DentonHalloween.com.

RULE #3: PLAN AROUND WHAT YOU ALREADY LIKE With hundreds of events, a carefully curated day is far more enjoyable than a helter skelter checklist. Pick a daytime experience, reserve the evening for dinner and one headline attraction, or simply stroll around town to become part of the adventure, depending on what you like. The shops, bars, and restaurants are the true stars of the show, so choose one of your favorites along Hickory or Oak Street and blend a market or movie into your visit. Halloween night itself also offers downtown business trick-or-treating from 5 to 7 pm., followed by a special surprise scheduled for 6:30 pm.

For an adults’ night out, arrive before sunset, enjoy dinner downtown, and treat yourself to a self-guided food-and-booze tour to find Halloween-inspired drinks and desserts. Finish with live music, a haunted tour, a movie screening, or a cabaret performance. If you love dressing up, this is your time to shine, but comfortable shoes are essential. This October, consider making Denton your Halloween destination. Halloween represents a chance to embrace your inner child, get together with friends and family, and turn one ghoulish night into a monthlong celebration.

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More Info DiscoverDenton.com DentonDayoftheDeadFestival.com DentonHalloween.com ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 15

Restoring

HOPE PE

For People with Herniated & Bulging Discs

by Murray Media & Marketing | photography by Katelynn Ponomarenko

or Dr. Vince Baugher, chiropractic care was never simply a career choice. It began with a deeply per-

sonal experience that changed the direction of his life.

One of the center’s primary areas of focus is spinal decompression. With seven spinal decompression tables and thousands of patients treated over the

While studying biochemistry as an under-

years, the practice has

Baugher watched his mother struggle with

sive experience

tional medical approaches had not brought

who may have

a chiropractor took on her case. Over the

approaches

dramatically. Dr. Baugher was fascinated.

the relief they

graduate at the University of Alabama, Dr.

developed exten-

severe, life-threatening epilepsy. After tradi-

helping people

her the improvements the family hoped for,

tried multiple

course of about a year, her health improved

without finding

The chiropractor invited him to shadow the

were looking for.

practice, giving him an opportunity to watch

More recently, the practice added shock-

chiropractic care. What struck Dr. Baugh-

people dealing with stubborn joint, tendon

using nothing more than his hands. “I was

arthritis, rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow

firsthand as patients found relief through

wave therapy, providing another option for

er most was the ability to help people

and soft-tissue conditions such as chronic

hooked,” he recalls.

and plantar fasciitis.

That experience led Dr. Baugher to chiro-

But for Dr. Baugher, the technology and

He has been practicing chiropractic for 28

believes the most important part of health-

practic school and, eventually, to Denton.

techniques are only part of the story. He still

years and founded The Spinal Decompres-

care is the person sitting across from him.

sion & Chiropractic Center in 1998.

Over the years, his practice has evolved

into a specialty-focused clinic with particular experience treating challenging spinal

conditions, including herniated and bulging discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and chronic neck and back pain.

The practice emphasizes listening carefully, explaining what may be happening, and

providing honest recommendations. The

goal is to create an environment that feels

comfortable and personal — a place where patients feel genuinely cared for and, perhaps most importantly, hopeful.

16 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

That philosophy is reflected in the clinic’s mission: “Align bodies, restore hope, and promote unity.” FROM ONE PERSON TO A COMMUNITY When Dr. Baugher first began practicing, the operation looked very different. It was essentially Dr. Baugher and his 75-year-old “grandmother,” who helped answer phones and get the business off the ground. Nearly three decades later, the practice has grown into a team-based organization with a strong connection to the community. Along the way, Dr. Baugher learned an important lesson: A business does not have to be everything to everyone. Instead, he focused on developing expertise in areas where his team could make a LiveLocalMagazines.com

meaningful difference. He also learned that knowing when another professional may be better equipped to help a patient is as important as knowing what he does best. That collaborative philosophy extends beyond the clinic. On several Bahá’í Holy Days when the office is closed, the team chooses to spend the day serving together. They have volunteered with organizations including Lovepacs, Shiloh Field Community Garden, and Our Daily Bread. Those experiences reinforced Dr. Baugher’s belief that a healthy community is more than healthy bodies. It is about people building relationships, serving together and creating connections across differences. BUILDING A HEALTHIER DENTON That same idea inspired Dr. Baugher to found the Denton Area Wellness Coalition (DAWC), an effort designed to bring healthcare and wellness professionals together to build relationships, learn from one another, and develop stronger connections to benefit the people they serve. For Dr. Baugher, collaboration is key, and its 50+ members range from neurosurgeons and pediatricians to nutritionists and reiki practitioners. A community becomes stronger when professionals know and trust one another and can work together rather than in isolation.

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GIVING PEOPLE THEIR LIVES BACK Ask Dr. Baugher what he loves most about his work, and the answer comes quickly: seeing people get their lives back.

For someone who has been in pain for

years, progress may begin with something seemingly small — sleeping through the

night, walking through the grocery store

without needing to sit down, playing with

grandchildren or simply being able to par-

ticipate in an activity they once enjoyed.

One case from nearly 20 years ago remains especially memorable. A 54-year-old triathlete arrived with a massive 19 mm lumbar disc herniation and could barely walk.

Determined to return to the active lifestyle he loved, he underwent an intensive treat-

His work has also expanded beyond his own practice. Dr. Baugher coaches and mentors chiropractors around the country, helping them build practices that are successful not only financially, but also through strong teams, exceptional patient care and meaningful community involvement. Ultimately, Dr. Baugher believes success should be measured by more than business growth. “Success gets much more meaningful when it expands beyond ‘How well is my business doing?’ to ‘How much good can we do together?’” It is a philosophy that captures both his approach to chiropractic care and his vision for Denton — relieve suffering, restore hope, and help create a truly unified community.

ment schedule.

Over the next seven months, his condition changed dramatically. He became pain-

free, returned to competitive triathlons and later had an MRI showing that the herniation had nearly resolved. He continues to race today.

For Dr. Baugher, the most meaningful part of that story was watching someone go

from believing his athletic life might be over to competing again. After 28 years, those moments still inspire him.

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ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 17

FALL FASHION photos courtesy of each respective business

TBK — THE BEES KNEES

CLOTHING & GIFT BOUTIQUE (940) 294-6743 NOW LOCATED AT 606 US 377 N. | Argyle, TX 76226 tbkTheBeesKnees.com Fall is arriving at TBK, and this season is all about color, texture and easy confidence. Rich navy, berry tones, classic plaids and polished matching sets are leading the way, along with lightweight layers and statement accessories that make getting dressed feel effortless. Our Fall Fashion Edit is filled with wearable trends chosen for real women and real life, with new arrivals coming in throughout the season. Whether you need a fresh look for dinner out, an easy everyday outfit or just a few pieces to update your wardrobe, there’s always something new to discover. You’ll also find thoughtful gifts, jewelry and accessories throughout the store, plus plenty of mahjong favorites, lessons and events. Come shop, stay awhile and see what’s new at TBK this fall.

18 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

CLOUD AND FEATHER BOUTIQUE (714) 240-2897 | CloudAndFeather.com 2660 Justin Rd., Ste. 100, Bartonville, TX 76226 (Located inside Cloud 9 Salon and Spa)

Fall has arrived at Cloud and Feather Boutique! Embrace the season in style with this effortlessly chic look. A satin midi skirt finished with romantic lace trimmed pairs beautifully with a cozy faux-fur leopard jacket-a combination that feels perfect for crisp Autumn air, pumpkin season outings and everything in between. At Cloud and Feather, you’ll find new fall styles for every mood, from cozy and causal to polished and unexpected. We have Halloween and Thanksgiving seasonal finds from clothing and accessories to spooky and festive decor for your home. This along with our everyday gifts, jewelry and fashion, you are guaranteed to find that perfect something you’ve been looking for. Come and discover your new favorite Autumn treasure and Cloud and Feather Boutique!

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GUIDE 2026

CHARMING & MAIN charmingandmain.com hello@charmingandmain.com Local pickup at 308 FM1830, Ste. 18A, Argyle, TX 76226 Fall is the perfect excuse to give your closet a little refresh. The Fall Chapter has arrived at Charming & Main with cozy sweaters, easy cardigans, pretty blouses, classic plaids, and all the layers you’ll want when the temperatures finally decide to cooperate. And because we believe a great outfit usually starts with a really good pair of jeans, you’ll find plenty of those too. Comfortable stretch, fits that hold their shape, and styles made for real life, not just the dressing room. Add a favorite sweater or blouse, and getting dressed just got a whole lot easier. Charming & Main is a locally owned, online women’s boutique. We don’t have a traditional storefront, but you can shop charmingandmain.com 24/7 and choose FREE local pickup at checkout. Your order will be waiting in our convenient pickup lockers, ready whenever you are, day or night.

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CHARMED BY RYANN Visit us in Parker Square 630 Parker Square Rd, Flower Mound, TX 75028 CharmedByRyann.com PAINTING PARKER SQUARE PINK THIS FALL! Meet Charmed by Ryann, the newest boutique in Parker Square, bringing a fresh take on fall fashion to Flower Mound. Think gorgeous colors, elevated basics, statement pieces, and effortlessly chic looks for every woman. Polka dots are continuing strongly into Fall 2026, while brown remains a major seasonal color, and fashion is pairing those deeper neutrals with brighter, unexpected pops of color.

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 19

HOW TO FEED A LOON RECIPE

Funnel Cake

ring the fair to your kitchen with this Homemade Funnel Cake recipe! Light, crispy, and golden, it’s an easy, fun treat topped with powdered sugar or your favorite sweet toppings.

Instructions

Recipe and photos by Kris Longwell and

1. Add about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or pot. Heat to 350 to 360°F.

Wesley Loon of HowToFeedaLoon.com

Equipment

• 1 skillet or pot for frying or deep-fryer

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, water, and vanilla extract

• candy/deep fry thermometer

3. In another bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• funnel batter dispenser or pastry bag, squeeze bottle, or measuring cup with spout

4. Use a large wooden spoon the gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring until the batter is smooth.

Ingredients

5. Carefully transfer the batter into a large funnel, piping bag, squeeze bottle, or measuring cup with a spout.

2 large eggs

6. Over the hot oil, drizzle the batter in a swirling, crisscross pattern to form a lacy round cake. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, until the underside is golden brown. Use tongs or metal spatulas to very carefully flip the cake over. Fry for another minute or two.

vegetable oil for frying

1 cup whole milk 1 cup water 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon Kosher salt 1 cup powdered sugar

Kris Longwell and Wesley Loon are Denton County food bloggers.

Check out HowToFeedALoon.com to watch them make this recipe. 20 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

7. Use a spatula or metal spider to carefully transfer the cake to a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with the remaining batter. 8. Dust the funnel cakes generously with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.

Subscribe to the How to Feed a Loon YouTube channel: YouTube.com/HowToFeedaLoon LiveLocalMagazines.com

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A Grown-Up NIGHT OUT at Fair Park

by Craig Hewitt | photos courtesy of State Fair of Texas he State Fair of Texas is often remembered as a childhood rite of passage—Big Tex, thrilling rides, fried-food delicacies, and a dazzling midway that seems to stretch forever. However, the State Fair is not just for kids. With live music, local craft beer, wine, and Texas-inspired cocktails, and unforgettable people-watching, the fair provides the perfect setting for a date night or a long-overdue outing with friends.

additional stages make it easy to stumble upon a new band between food and drink runs and pit stops. The early announced lineup includes Kylie Frey, DJ Trae Ned & Friends, Yolanda Cruz & The Daydreamers, The Coppertones, and Gabby & The Byrds, and more acts are expected as the season approaches. The musical variety works well for groups with diverse tastes. Country fans can lean

Consider arriving in late afternoon, when the sun begins to soften and the fairgrounds shift from daytime bustle to a neon-lit spectacle. On the way in, capture an obligatory selfie with Big Tex, then make your way through the grounds with no agenda beyond eating something adventuradventur ous, catching a show, and letting the evening unfold. The fair runs until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, with a cutoff entry time of 9 pm, ideal timing for stragglers still wanting to make a night of it.

into Texas-rooted sounds, while friends in the mood for something different can move from stage to stage without comcom mitting to a single concert all night. Check the daily schedule before arriving and choose one must-see performance, then leave room for a little spontaneity.

Toast the fairgrounds A fair date night deserves more than a lemonade. The Magnolia Beer Garden offers craft beer fans shaded seating and a line-up of fair-exclusive brews. For Texas wine aficionados, The Grove, also known as the State Fair Wine & Beer Garden, serves local craft beer on tap, wine by the glass or bottle, tasting options, and room to settle in between attractions. For a more relaxed cocktail break, BlueBlue bonnet Roadhouse offers beer, cocktails, wine, and frozen drinks near the Chevro Chevrolet Main Stage. Another strong option is Fernie’s Skyway Porch. Here, you can grab a beer or wine-based cocktail and claim a rocking chair for a stellar view of Big Tex from behind the landmark.

Live music and big energy

Rides, games, and tasty treats

The State Fair experience would not be complete without live music, and the 2026 season will feature free live performances throughout the fair’s 24day run. The Chevrolet Main Stage brings the biggest concert atmosphere, while

Even big kids should embrace the Midway at some point. Flaunt your competitive side for your date. Then test your nerve on the Thrillway. The Midway offers more than 70 rides, including the iconic 212foot Texas State Fair Ferris Ferris wheel

The 2026 Best Taste — Sipper: Tropical Coco Fresca created by Fruteria Cano

22 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

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2026 State Fair Quick Facts Location: Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave., Dallas, TX 75210.

Dates: Friday, Sept. 25 - Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.

and 500-foot Top o’ Texas Tower. Both offer fantastic views during the day, but nighttime provides a perspective that shouldn’t be missed. Be sure to partake on a few fair-food

specialities, which go far beyond corndogs and cotton candy. From Texas two-step street tacos to wagyu bacon cheeseburger deviled egg sliders, your taste buds will be amazed at what you find. Just pace yourself—both with coupons and cocktails. With more than 100 attractions, the fair gives you plenty to explore beyond food and rides. Whether you are planning a playful date night, celebrating with friends, or simply reliving a Texas tradition on your own terms, the State Fair of Texas delivers an unforgettable night out. LiveLocalMagazines.com

Hours: 10 am - 9 pm SundaySunday-Thursday. 10 am -10 pm Friday and Saturday. Last entry is at 9 pm. Admission: Children ages 3-12 are $10

every day. Children 2 and younger are free. For adults, admission is $10 Monday through Thursday, $20 Friday through Sunday.

Parking: Parking in State Fair lots is $25 per vehicle. Gates open at 9:30 am. DART option: Ride the Green Line to

Fair Park Station near the Parry Avenue entrance or MLK Jr. Station near the MLK Jr. Boulevard entrance.

Rideshare and taxis: Use the designated

rideshare pickup and drop-off location at Haskell Avenue and 4206 Gurley Ave. Taxis are available near Pacific and Gurley, outside Gate 1.

TOP FIVE ATTRACTIONS FOR KIDS: • Explore the Midway with more than 70 attractions and family-friendly classics. • Visit Big Tex, the fair’s famous, 55-foot cowboy mascot. • Visit animal exhibits at the livestock barns, a classic fair experience. • Catch a free show. All performances, demonstrations, and exhibits are included with admission. • Try a new fair food. With sweet or savory creations, everyone will find something they love. ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 23

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ARE YOU

Feeling

Festive?

Autumn Brings Cooler Weather and Plenty of Ways to Celebrate

by Craig Hewitt | photos courtesy of festival's social media

hen North Texas finally trades summer’s triple-digit afternoons for more hospitable weather, everyone in town looks for a reason to get out and rejoice. From Halloween-inspired family fun and hometown traditions to lively Oktoberfests and savory festivals, this Autumn is serving up a monthly lineup of events that are cause for celebration. Check your calendar, invite a few friends, and make the most of fall.

Frisco Oktoberfest Saturday, October 3 | The Star, 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco | friscooktoberfest.com The Star in Frisco gets a Bavarian makeover as the Frisco Oktoberfest returns for its seventh year. This one-day celebration packs in authentic German cuisine, frothy Oktoberfest bier, fest-inspired games, stein-hoisting contests, and live music, an ideal combination for adults looking for a spirited fall outing. Wear your lederhosen and dirndls if you dare, bring your appe appetite, and prepare to celebrate.

Aubrey Peanut Festival

Patch’s Place Fall Festival

Saturday, October 3 301 S. Main St., Aubrey | aubreytx.gov

Saturday, October 10 9910 Meadow Ranch Rd., Justin givebutter.com/PatchsPlaceFallFestival

A charming hometown tradition, Aubrey’s 40th Annual Peanut Festival brings plenty of small-town flair. Celebrate the community’s agricultural roots while enjoying a

full day built around local pride, parade excitement, vendors, food, and festival-day browsing. This classic North Texas event offers a simple outing that can become an all-day adventure and, of course, peanuts take center stage.

Fall Into Flower Mound Festival

For an afternoon of fun and southern hospitality, head to Patch’s Place’s second annual Fall Festival. All for a good cause, this Justin gathering supports a draft horse sanctuary devoted to healing and hope for animals and people alike. Come enjoy an autumn outing on the ranch, connect with fellow animal lovers, and support a local mission that deserves to be celebrated.

Friday & Saturday, October 9-10 The River Walk, 4110 River Walk Dr., Flower Mound | flowermound.gov Flower Mound’s homegrown fall celebration returns for its second year with two festive days of live entertainment, carnival games, vendor booths, a hay maze, and a pumpkin photo garden perfect for family snapshots. A wonderfully easy way to embrace the season without leaving town, come for the activities, the music, or simply an evening stroll with friends and family.

26 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

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Little Monsters on Main Saturday, October 24 | Old Town Lewisville and Wayne Ferguson Plaza 150 W. Church St., Lewisville | cityoflewisville.com Families can end the month on a delightfully spooky note at Little Monsters on Main. Old Town Lewisville becomes a kid-friendly Halloween playground with Main Street trick-or-treating, inflatable attractions, live music, haunted hayrides, strolling entertainment, and a movie in Wayne Ferguson Plaza. Costumes are encouraged, candy bags are essential, and the first 500 trick-or-treaters receive a free event bag.

Southlake Oktoberfest

Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival

Flower Mound Smoke & Whiskey Fest

Friday-Sunday, October 16-18 Southlake Town Square,1256 Main St., Southlake | oktoberfestsouthlake.com

Saturday, October 24 | Denton Downtown Square, 110 W. Hickory Street, Denton dentondayofthedeadfestival.com

Saturday, October 31 | The River Walk, 4250 Esplanade Pl., Flower Mound txwhiskeyfest.com

Raise a stein for the 25th anniversary of Southlake Oktoberfest, a beloved three-

Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival transforms Denton’s historic downtown into

Bring your appetite to the Flower Mound Smoke & Whiskey Fest, where champion-

day celebration in Southlake Town Square blends Bavarian spirit with Texas style. Indulge on bratwurst, pretzels, and German-style beer while enjoying live entertainment on three stages, arts and crafts, family activities, and the crowd-pleasing wiener dog races. Best of all, admission and parking are free. Prost!

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a colorful celebration of community, culture, and creativity. A multicultural, family-friendly weekend event, this wonderfully theatrical festival promises candy, costumed fun, and Denton’s unmistakable charm. Saturday is the centerpiece, with additional Friday programming and Cirque Du Horror festivities on Sunday, weekgiving you every reason to make a week end of it.

ship barbecue meets a Whiskey Corral filled with Texas-made spirits. Presented as a Texas State BBQ Championship, this lively fundraiser invites guests to taste, vote, and enjoy an unapologetically smoky celebration. Tickets include barbecue and whiskey tastings, so this event is tailor-made for serious food and drink lovers.

ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 27

Bonnie Clyde

by Ali Paraskevopoulos

Pilot Point's Bonnie & Clyde Days Celebrates film's history

28 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

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DFW

is one of the biggest and bestknown metropolitan areas in the country. Known for everything from sports and art districts to major corporations, there is no lack of history here. A laundry list of celebrities were born in the city, and there are countless stories of people being raised in its various suburbs. However, two other famous names were also primarily based in our area that we tend to overlook (maybe purposefully). The most infamous crime couple in history, Bonnie and Clyde, were both born in Texas and laid their roots here. During their big crime spree in the early 1930s, they often returned to the area to hide out with family before returning to the road. DFW also served as the home base for the Barrow Gang and was where the pair primarily recruited. One of the other notable members was Marvin “Buck” Barrow, Clyde’s older brother, who was also raised in the area. Especially in the early days of their criminal activities, the gang operated entirely in and around the Metroplex. Bonnie, Clyde, and Buck are all also buried locally, with Bonnie in Dallas and Clyde and Buck both in Fort Worth.

small town, much like Bonnie and Clyde themselves once did. The historic city was used as a filming location for the movie. The bank used in the film is an actual bank still standing in Pilot Point and is the location of the main event of Bonnie & Clyde Days — a yearly reenactment of the filming. It’s important to note, however, that the bank was never robbed by the actual Bonnie and Clyde. The connection between Pilot Point and the film has become an annual tradition, bringing the town’s history to life for both locals and visitors. This year, Bonnie and Clyde Days will return to the Pilot Point Square on October 10 with a full day of events and activities for the community. There will be wrestling and tribute bands running until 9 pm, as well as a 5K cleverly named the

However, there isn’t much that commemorates the connection to the criminal pair — maybe because housing a museum dedicated to the two would feel too much like a celebration of criminals. However, their story has still become part of the local history in a few unexpected places. The Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway movie Bonnie & Clyde was released in 1967 by Warner Bros.-Seven Arts, and it went on to be one of the highest grossing films of the year, earning 10 Oscar nominations and two wins — Estelle Parsons for Best Supporting Actress and Burnett Guffey for Best Cinematography. The movie is also considered a turning point for American cinema as one of the first films of the New Hollywood era. The American Film Institute ranks Bonnie & Clyde at number 42 in their 100 Greatest American Films of All time. In Pilot Point — where the bank robbery scene was filmed — history has turned into an annual tradition. Every year, the town hosts Bonnie & Clyde Days with a variety of vendors and attractions. It's important to note the event isn’t a celebration of the criminals; rather, it’s a celebration of Hollywood stepping foot in the LiveLocalMagazines.com

“Take the Money & Run 5K” that takes a path around the town. The square’s main attractions will also be open for business, with a variety of events including a book sale at the Pilot Point Community Library, a kids’ zone and ninja obstacle course at City Hall, and a blood drive being held at the community center. Whether you’re there for the bank robbery reenactment, the “Take the Money & Run 5K,” live music, wrestling, or simply to explore the historic square, there is plenty to experience throughout the day. For anyone interested in North Texas history, or those just looking for something different to do, the event offers a chance to see one of DFW’s lesser-known stories come to life. Visit visitpilotpoint.org/bonnie-clyde-days for more info. ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | 29

A Romantic Journey in Nearby Oklahoma City

klahoma City has quickly become one of the region’s most compel‑ ling romantic getaways — a destination where luxury, walkability, culture, and world‑class dining inter‑ sect with surprising sophistication. At the center of this renaissance is The National Hotel, a breathtakingly re‑ stored Art Deco masterpiece inside the historic First National Center. As you describe, “stepping into The Great Hall is like entering a cathedral of American Art Deco,” a cinematic, intimate space that sets the tone for an elevated es‑ cape just a short, easy drive up I‑35 from the DFW Metroplex. A Masterpiece Restored The National Hotel is one of the most im‑ pressive historic restorations in the country. Originally opened in 1931, the First National Center was once the tallest and most glam‑ orous building west of the Mississippi — a symbol of Oklahoma’s oil‑boom confidence. Today, after an extraordinary multi‑year renovation, it feels reborn. Towering marble columns, hand‑painted ceilings, gilded de‑ tails, and restored murals wrap the Great Hall in color and history. Guestrooms continue the Art Deco narrative with rich blues, marble

accents, plush bedding, and soft lighting that create a sanctuary of understated luxury.

& Bond brings a refined steakhouse atmo‑

sphere with dark woods, polished service,

and an impressive whiskey list of more than 500 bottles. Hidden behind the

original vault door, The Vault is one of

the nation’s most unique cocktail bars — moody, intimate, and evocative of mid‑century glamour.

A Walkable, Romantic Downtown One of Oklahoma City’s most delight‑ ful surprises is how walkable, clean,

and safe its downtown feels. Cultural Dining Inside The National One of the pleasures of staying at The

National is realizing you could spend an entire weekend inside the building and

never exhaust its dining experiences. The full room‑service menu turns your suite into a

private retreat — “a luxurious, intimate way to

end the day without ever leaving your room.”

attractions are just steps away. The

Oklahoma City Museum of Art features

world‑class exhibitions and one of the larg‑

est public Chihuly collections, including the stunning 55‑foot atrium installation.

The Myriad Botanical Gardens offer 15 acres

of shaded paths, quiet corners, and seasonal

blooms, with the Crystal Bridge Conservatory adding a tropical escape. On the 49th floor

Tellers, set inside the former bank teller

of Devon Tower, VAST delivers sweeping

architectural drama, and its themed high tea

brations. Adjacent NOVA Lounge offers a

stations, blends Italian‑inspired cuisine with is a standout. Gilded Acorn offers a bright,

Parisian‑style pâtisserie experience with artful pastries, champagne, and excellent coffee

— ideal for a slow, romantic morning. Stock

by Terri Guthrie Society of American Travel Writers

LISTEN TO TERRI'S PODCAST

30 | SOUTH DENTON LIVING | ISSUE 09 | SEP 18 - OCT 16, 2026

views and refined dining perfect for cele‑

glamorous penthouse vibe with inventive

cocktails, decadent desserts, and tableside cart service.

For more inspiration, visit VisitOKC.com.

FOLLOW TERRI ON INSTAGRAM

@TRAVELWITHTERRI

VISIT TERRI'S WEBSITE

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