The State of Texas - 878.2 miles - Outlet edition

I-35 is outlet drive, albeit also an interstate highway. Usually we go to San Marcos Prime Outlets, when we get our Kreuz BBQ fix. This time, we hit the other end after Wacky Waco and went to the Round Rock Premium Outlets, just north of Austin.

Smaller than San Marcos, but an interesting layout. Instead of parking in the center and shops on the perimeter, it is just the opposite in RR. Mostly the same stores, Coach is at both if your teen or yourself needs their trendy fix. SM has really, really grown (with a gondola!) and you need a car to move around if your desired stores are scattered about. Both have mall-ized store/theme locations, so you aren't going zappy-crazy between your starred stores on your fold-out map.

But lately, L and I have noticed the deals are still there, but best with combo-type sales (For instance, take an additional 20% all red items, coupon postcards, etc. Sigh, Coach back in the day. I still use that totebag.) You have to stumble upon them by happenstance. And when the temperature is 95+, going between stores and hot-hot UAV will make you melt.

Our advice -- Check the websites, sign up for special offers emails, shop in the morning, and wear comfy shoes! (We still think the Gilroy Outlet is #1...And it has an In-n-Out Burger!)