Remember when your mom used to tell you to eat your spinach? The community of Crystal City is known as the spinach capitol of the world and there is an annual spinach festival held in the city each year. Crystal City is so fond of spinach that there is even a statue of Popeye in front of the City Hall downtown. The many spinach fields surrounding the outskirts of town can be easily spotted when driving into Crystal City.
The community of Crystal City is a small city located in the county of Zavala, Texas. It is also the county seat of government for Zavala. At the time of the last major census, the total population was at about 7,100 people. Crystal City is situated several hours south of the major urban enclaves of San Antonio and Houston, Texas and it's only about fifty miles north of the United States/Mexico border. Ole!
Moving to Crystal City
When you've made that big decision to start looking for an apartment for rent in the community of Crystal City, Texas, the good news is you'll find many different types of homes to choose from throughout the community. There are tons of duplexes for rent, luxury apartments, furnished apartments and lots of single-family homes to choose from as well.
When and Where to Look
With seasons temperate all year round, you can look any time of year for a place to rent. But give yourself about a month to peruse the possibilities, as rentals can come and go. Look online, and if you can, take a drive through this small city yourself to find the best spot. The local paper, The Zavala County Sentinel, offers a look at rentals too, particularly in the Sunday paper.
What You Need
You won't necessarily need a car to move here. While most residents drive, public transportation is plentiful. You also won't need that winter jacket. Although friendly word of mouth may count for a fair amount in this community when rentals are discussed, you'll still need to have your current ID, access to your credit report and bank statements.
Neighborhoods
If you're ready to bask in the spinach fields of Crystal City, it's time to figure out which neighborhood to move into.
Bushy Creek Colonia / Camposanto-Elcometa Colonia: This sprawling neighborhood may be a mouthful to pronounce, but it is one of the most beautiful locations in Zavala county. Here, potential residents can enjoy a wide variety of single-family homes and apartments of all shapes and sizes to choose from - many of which include large lots, so you can enjoy that Texas pastime of a family Barbeque. Of course, you should also include a fresh spinach salad! Residents love the easy access to the downtown Crystal City attractions such as City Hall, the John Garner Museum and Juan Garcia Park.
City Center: This centrally located little neighborhood is situated right in the heart of the community. There are a number of great duplexes, apartments and single-family homes to explore, as well as luxury properties. It is an ideal location to choose for those who wish to have quick access to downtown as well as the major highways on the eastern edge of town. Residents enjoy access to many shops and restaurants, the adjacent Carrizo Springs, the community center and much more. If you'd like a mouth watering south of the border delight, try out the nearby Richardo's Latin American Restaurant
Life in Crystal City, TX
It's crystal clear -- there is certainly no shortage of fun things to see, do and explore in the Crystal City area. This city has a thriving community life, and there are many events hosted here each year. One of the most cherished is the annual Spinach Fest, which takes place each Fall. The Spinach Fest is spread out over the course of several days and includes multiple live musical acts, many interesting food choices to sample that include spinach (spinach ice cream anyone?) and games and activities for the whole family. There is also a car show and drag racing at the Spinach Fest event.
Other favorite yearly events include the Memorial Day Ceremony, Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration, and talks and walks held by the Crystal City Historical Society. In addition to great events each year, there are also a number of things visitors and residents alike can enjoy on a regular basis. Crystal City is home to many excellent parks and green spaces, including Juan Garcia Park, nearby Comanche Lake, Fishhook Lake and recreation area, and Oak Park. With a name like Fishhook, you better bring that rod and reel along when you pay a visit. Each of these make great places to walk, go for a bike ride, play with the kids or to get some summer sunshine in.
Another popular Crystal City pastime is Disc Golf, which can be enjoyed at the Crystal City Underground Disc Golf Course throughout the year. This course is literally underground and is the world's first subterranean disc golf center. How's that for a first?
History and art lovers will have a great time exploring some of Crystal City's interesting museums. The John Garner Museum hosts many art gallery receptions, the Brush County Museum offers an inside look at important Texas history and Hill Country Internment Camp is a good place to explore the United States' past involvement in World War II.
There are many wonderful places to eat and drink in Crystal City as well. The historic downtown area is home to a number of wonderful cafes, casual food spots and fine dining eateries as well. Try Yolie's Steakhouse!
Crystal City is a beautiful place to call home, with plenty of green space, comfortable weather and plenty of sunshine. Multiple bus routes through town make the area quite accessible. The overall vibe here is very small town-like, but Crystal City still offers all the amenities one could want from museums and festivals to shopping and dining. Whether you're into sports like fishing or hiking, you want to learn about local history or you just want to settle in and relax on your own front porch -- it's your cup of tea...or spinach -- you can be sure to feel right at home in Crystal City, Texas.
