Summer Travel

Plano-based FedEx Office adds new rush passport service at all locations

For those times when you need one of these ASAP.

Courtesy photo

Wannabe international travelers have an ultra-convenient new way to get their passport processed in a jiffy: Plano-based FedEx Office, previously known for printing, packing, and shipping, has teamed up with RushMyPassport, an online passport service, to offer expedited U.S. passport services, beginning July 1.

The U.S. State Department recently increased the average time it takes to get a passport processed to 6-8 weeks (it used to be 4-6 weeks).

Now you can stop at one of the 2,000 FedEx locations or visit them online at FedEx.com/passport if you need rushed passport processing, renewals, or updated government-compliant passport photos.

You can actually get a passport in as quickly as one day.

Other services include overnight shipping for rushed passport applications; full-tracking visibility throughout the approval process; and 24/7 assistance from passport specialists.

Kim Dixon, chief operating officer of FedEx Office, says in a release that this collaboration with RushMyPassport gives travelers a quick and efficient way to expedite and renew their passports.

"Many of us have experienced the distress of realizing our passport isn’t ready for an upcoming trip and, as a result, scramble to find a last-minute solution," Dixon says. "This convenient service will help eliminate the confusion and common errors that often arise and help simplify the process."

Expedited passports and rushed passport renewal baseline pricing is offered at six levels:

24-hour service — 1 business day: $449
Next-day service — 2 business days: $349
Priority service — 3-5 business days: $249
Rush service — 6-7 business days: $169
Standard service — 8-10 business days: $119
Rush renewal* — 10-12 business days: $99

They'll also sell government-compliant 2x2 photos to submit with passport applications, for a mere $14.95.

RushMyPassport CEO Mosie Miller says that, beyond the need to get a passport ASAP, doing it the regular way puts you at the mercy of the US Postal System. Oooh burn.

"Routine passport processing can take weeks," Miller says. "You also have to factor in the possibility of issues with documents you finally receive in the mail, causing further delays and even more headaches. [This service] helps travelers overcome these issues, giving a smooth and secure way to handle passport needs."

RushMyPassport.com is owned by Expedited Travel LLC, and specializes in expediting U.S. passports.

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Toast to Texas

Texas Hill Country uncorks No. 3 ranking among best U.S. wine regions

Texas Hill Country Wineries

Texas Hill Country wine

The Lone Star State's booming Hill Country wine scene is about to get a lot busier, as it was just declared the No. 3 best wine region in the country for "a grape getaway."

The Hill Country was honored in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for the Best Wine Region in 2026. The 10Best awards program puts a spotlight on the best travel destinations, the best food and drink spots, local attractions, and must-visit shopping locations. A panel of experts and 10Best editors select their top picks to present to readers, who then vote to decide the winners.

The Texas Hill Country was ranked higher than some of the most well-known wine regions in the U.S., including California's esteemed Temecula Valley, Anderson Valley, and Paso Robles.

USA Today estimates there are over 60 wineries spread across scenic towns like Fredericksburg, Stonewall, Lampasas, and New Braunfels. National acclaim for the Hill Country has transformed its vineyards into can't-miss tourist destinations for locals and out-of-towners alike.

"This American Viticultural Area is one of the largest in the country, growing varietals like tempranillo, viognier, cabernet sauvignon, and an increasing acreage of warm-weather grapes," editors wrote.

The Hill Country previously ranked as the 9th best wine region in the nation in 2025, so its elevation to the top three this year is a testament to local wineries' dedication to providing top-notch wines and excellent service for patrons.

This summer is teeming with events and festivals in the area, such as grape-stomping shindigs and seasonal passes for discounts and deals at participating members of trade organization Texas Hill Country Wineries. Dallasites can take the scenic route to traverse the region's small towns, and there are plenty of hotels, cabins, campgrounds, and resorts for an overnight stay.

"Being named the No. 3 Wine Region in the country by USA Today readers is a huge honor for our entire Hill Country wine community," said THCW executive director January Wiese. "We've been proud to see this region recognized among the nation's best before, and this year's ranking is a testament to the incredible growers, winemakers, and hospitality teams who make Texas Hill Country a true wine destination. We can't wait to welcome visitors to experience it for themselves."

Grape Creek Vineyards has three locations in the Hill Country. Courtesy of Grape Creek Vineyards

One Fredericksburg winery also offers an immersive tour that rivals the most prestigious California wineries. Grape Creek Vineyards ranked No. 5 nationally in USA Today's separate list of the Best Winery Tours. The signature Taste & Tour features a tram ride through Grape Creek's estate, with stops inside production facilities where attendees can try tastings right out of the barrel.

Heath Family Brands CEO and owner Brian Heath, who owns Grape Creek, was honored by the award recognition and praised the brand's dedicated team members "who work every day to make sure every guest leaves with a story to tell."

"Fredericksburg is home to some of the best wine tourism in the country, and it means the world to be recognized alongside it," Heath told CultureMap.

Taste & Tour experiences are offered at Grape Creek Vineyards' Highway 290 location for $45 per person. Tours are limited to six guests per group, and must be booked in advance.

The top 10 best wine regions in the U.S. in 2026 are:

No. 1 – Rogue Valley, Oregon
No. 2 – West Elks, Colorado
No. 3 – Hill Country, Texas
No. 4 – Paso Robles, California
No. 5 – Augusta, Missouri
No. 6 – Anderson Valley, California
No. 7 – Loudoun, Virginia
No. 8 – Willamette Valley, Oregon
No. 9 – Yakima Valley, Washington
No. 10 – Temecula Valley, California

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