what is tourism in texas

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The essential guide to visiting Texas

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the Lone Star State—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Texas

Big skies and bigger parks. Barbecue and Tex-Mex food (don’t miss the breakfast tacos). A vibrant live music scene in   Austin and world-class birding in South Texas. Plus, cowboys .

Best time to visit Texas

Spring:   March and April bring colorful wildflowers (indigo-hued bluebonnets , red-and-yellow Indian blankets) to the highways and backroads in Central Texas. In Austin,   the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center has 284 acres of native plants inspired by the   Texas-born first lady . Outdoor festivals crowd the calendar. Austin’s South by Southwest Festival offers films and concerts each March; San Antonio ’s ebullient Fiesta   celebrates the city’s Hispanic heritage with parades, a stuff-your-face food festival , and concerts in April. And midway between Austin and Houston , the March Round Top Antiques Fair fills tents, barns, and hayfields with French furniture, vintage cowboy boots, and more.

Summer:   Y’all, it’s hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Beat the heat at one of the state’s Gulf of Mexico beaches , including South Padre Island , where you can watch hatchling releases of baby Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles . Or do as the locals do and go tubing in the Guadalupe River near New Braunfels or in the Frio River in Garner State Park .

Autumn:   Cooler temps lure Texans outdoors to events such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival , with bands in Zilker Park,   or the State Fair of Texas   in Dallas where you can eat a corn dog and wave to Big Tex ,   the 55-foot-tall animatronic greeter.   Lost Maples State Natural Area ,   northwest of San Antonio, has the state’s best fall colors. Celebrate New Braunfels ’ German heritage at Wurstfest .

Winter:   Mild weather makes outdoor activities pleasant around the holidays. In San Antonio, stroll the Riverwalk, where the bald cypress trees are draped with twinkling lights. Amid the Victorian downtown of Galveston , Dickens on the Strand brings costumed revelers and roving musicians.  

Four of America’s largest cities are in Texas.

In the south, San Antonio was once a part of Spain and later Mexico, a history that shows up at the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions . Houston has high culture (art museums, the acclaimed Alley Theatre ) and the NASA Johnson Space Center , where tram tours take in Mission Control and other sites.  

Sister cities Dallas and Fort Worth are just 30 miles apart in North Texas. In “Big D,” catch home games from the Dallas Cowboys football team or hear live music in funky Deep Ellum . A good art museum scene and cowboy culture rule in neighboring Fort Worth, where hatted herders lead longhorn cattle through the Stockyards District every day.

The capital city of Austin is known for live music, barbecue, and Barton Springs Pool , a natural, spring-fed watering hole and the soul of the city.

In the Rio Grande Valley,   an agricultural region bordering Mexico, there are cities such as McAllen and Brownsville plus the varied wildlife habitats (wetlands, thorn forests) of the World Birding Center .

In West Texas, El Paso   offers Tex-Mex bordertown culture amid the stark beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert and the foothills of the Franklin Mountains , best explored via mountain bike or hiking trails.

Parks and smaller cities

The Hill Country

The rolling terrain of the Hill Country in Central Texas is home to Fredericksburg , with its throwback main street full of indie boutiques and German restaurants plus 60-plus wineries in and around town. You’ll also find cowboy culture in Bandera and the beer-drinking enclave made famous in Waylon Jennings’   song “ Luckenbach , Texas .”

The Big Bend  

Two of the state’s largest parks— Big Bend National Park and the adjacent Big Bend Ranch State Park —lure hikers, bikers, and campers to the desert and mountain landscapes of West Texas. Stargaze at the University of Texas’ McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, or check out the Donald Judd art installations in funky Marfa .  

Texas Coast  

The longest barrier island in the world, Padre Island stretches for 113 miles from the tip of South Texas to Corpus Christi .   Farther north, Galveston Island is the birthplace of Juneteenth and home to Victorian mansions.  

Panhandle  

Palo Duro Canyon , the second largest canyon in the U.S. and a state park, carves through the Panhandle for 120 miles.  

Getting in and around Texas

By plane: Dallas-Fort Worth International, George Bush Intercontinental in Houston, and Austin-Bergstrom International offer domestic and international service; San Antonio International serves Mexico and other cities in the U.S.

By bus: Vonlane   and RedCoach   have luxury bus service between Austin, Dallas/Forth Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Valley Metro serves the Rio Grande Valley.

By train: Amtrak operates two train routes through Texas—the Texas Eagle   and Sunset Limited .

By car: Texas is easily accessible via major interstates including I-10, I-20, I-35, I-45, and I-37. One of the most scenic drives is FM 170, or the River Road, which hugs the Rio Grande and cuts through Big Bend Ranch State Park between Presidio and Lajitas.

In town: Major cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso have bus service and bike share systems. DART rail in Dallas serves 65 stations. Austin’s CapMetro rail operates a single line from downtown to the northern suburbs. Houston’s three METRORail   lines connect tourist destinations. The Streetcar in El Paso loops through uptown and downtown.

Know before you go

Cultural history: Native Americans have occupied Texas for more than 14,000 years. Coastal tribes like the Karankawa were semi-nomadic, the Caddos in East Texas and Jumanos in the West farmed and traded. Comanches and Apaches hunted bison and raided villages in the north and west. Enslaved Africans helped the Spanish settle parts of Texas in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The flags of France, Spain, and Mexico once flew over the state, which declared its independence from Mexico in 1836 and joined the U.S in 1846. Texas seceded from the Union and joined the Confederate States of America in 1861. The end of enslavement was announced in Galveston at the end of the Civil War, leading to the Juneteenth holiday .   Immigrants from around the world, including Germany and Czechia,   arrived during the 18th   and 19th centuries, making their marks on places such as New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, and Kerrville .

LGBTQ+ : Texas ranked 27th in a 2020 24/7 Wall St. report of the most LGBTQ+-friendly states in the U.S. Despite Texas’ conservative politics, cities such as Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, and San Antonio get high marks on the Human Rights Campaign 2022 Municipal Equality Index scorecard.

How to visit Texas sustainably

Help preserve habitat by sticking to designated trails and roads. Support businesses that promote dark night skies. It’s legal to drive on public beaches, but watch for wildlife, including nesting sea turtles, and use reef-safe sunscreen. The Love Fredericksburg and Port A Way stewardship   campaigns encourage visitors to keep an eye out for wildlife and pick up litter. Look for LEED-certified hotels and restaurants committed to selling locally grown food.

What to read  

Empire of the Summer Moon , by S.C. Gwynne. This sweeping historic account follows four decades of fighting with the Comanches, Spanish colonialism, the decimation of the American bison and the arrival of railroads.

Forget the Alamo ,   by Bryan Burrough, Chris Tomlinson and Jason Stanford. The myths surrounding the Texas “cradle of liberty” get debunked and explored in this fascinating look at the evolution of the Lone Star State, its legends, and its prejudices. Valley of Shadows ,   by Rudy Ruiz. In this novel set in 19th-century West Texas, tensions along the Mexican border bubble up in dramatic, dark style—with a dash of magical realism.  

( For more tips on what to do in Texas, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• STATE PARKS
• DARK-SKY PRESERVES
• CITY GUIDES

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Texas Travel 365

30 Things To Do In Texas: The Ultimate Bucket List

August 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365

Are you starting your next adventure and need a list of things to do in Texas? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve got the most epic stops, sightsees, road trips, and more in Texas that will make you want to bring a pen to keep track of where you’ve been so you can complete the list!

Texas is extremely unique and there’s a little something for everyone here! Whether you’re here for a day, a couple of weeks, or you live in Texas and just want to explore, this list is the perfect companion to your Texas adventure.

Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is a nature reserve located in Travis County Park. This is one of the most epic things to do in Texas during your stay! It’s so popular that they require a reservation before you are able to show up, and you have to be prepared for reservations to fill up early!

Hamilton Pool is home to a 50-foot waterfall that will be the perfect subject of any picture, or provide the perfect background for your group photos!

Hamilton Pool is also home to the Golden-cheeked Warbler and many other various bird species. The Golden-cheeked Warbler is even pictured on their Travis County Park logo!

This is one sight you will want at the top of your itinerary!

Explore The Small Towns

One thing you have to do while in Texas is explore the small towns !

You can visit Luckenbach with a population of only 3 people, or visit the popular Prada location in Marfa! No matter which small town you choose to explore, you will find a uniqueness that can only be found in that particular town!

Many of the small towns are located near each other so you can make it a weekend trip, or take a few days and stretch from Dripping Springs to Nacogdoches!

Exploring the small towns in Texas is one way to find some of the most hidden gems that state has to offer!

Haunted Texas Road Trip

Now this one might now be for the faint of heart. A Haunted Texas Road Trip is the perfect way to test your limits and experience something you just can’t explain!

The most notable stops are the Yorktown Memorial Hospital, Lobo, Marfa, and Terlingua. Each stop has an unexplainable feeling that will make your trip memorable.

While the Marfa Prada store seems like a great place to stop, the city has an unexplainable phenomenon called the Marfa Lights which are floating bright orbs that no one has been able to explain. Not to mention in Lobo, the town has been abandoned so the isolation you might feel here will have the hairs standing on the back of your neck!

We guarantee you will want to stick around during this road trip and see what phenomena you can experience.

See The Bluebonnets

Of course one of the things in Texas you have to do is stop and look at the Bluebonnets! The official state flower is an eye-catching experience as the areas they are located create blue fields!

You can visit the Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls, or head to Ennis, just south of Dallas, to travel through the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas! In Ennis, you will see the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail and will experience hundreds of beautiful Bluebonnets!

You also have to stop in Burnet, the Official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas! If there’s any place to see the glorious fields of Bluebonnets, it’s Burnet.

Gorman Falls Waterfall

If you find yourself around Wichita, Texas, you must stop and see the Gorman Falls Waterfall!

This 650-foot waterfall is full of tiered cascading falls and is one of the most captivating things to do in Texas. This waterfall is positioned in Colorado Bend State Park, and you will have to pay the park’s entrance fee to view the falls, but it will be worth every penny!

You absolutely need to utilize the bridge and see that perfect viewing spot!

Swimming is not allowed here, but viewing the falls will make the mile-round trip hike from the parking lot completely worth it!

You can’t come to Texas without taking the time to visit Big Bend!

Located in Brewster County, Big Bend is often named “Texas’ Gift to the Nation.” You’ll have to make the trip to Big Bend National Park and spend time in the Chisos Mountains.

Here, you can stop and explore the Langford Hot Springs, or take a day hike through the park. The best time to visit Big Bend is the Spring or Fall so that it is not too hot or cold outside.

The beauty of Big Bend is one of the best things to experience in Texas, so don’t leave this off your itinerary!

Kayak at Nichol’s Landing Paddle Trail

Kayakers traveling to Texas will definitely want to add this kayaking hot spot to their list of things to do in Texas!

Nichol’s Landing Paddle Trail is located at the Upper Guadalupe River and is comprised of about 10 miles of kayaking trails.

Here you’ll see beautiful Cypress Trees and have plenty of trails to relax and spend time in the water. This kayaking hot spot is great for a 3-6 hour experience, so make sure to plan to spend a good portion of your day here!

The trail ranges from rapid and rushing to calm and serene so all skills are necessary when experiencing this trail!

Dallas Museum Of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the most elaborate museums in Texas. With art from the third millennium BC stretching all the way to present day, you’re sure to see a lot of history and even a few famous artists.

At the Dallas Museum of Art, you can see works from Jason Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Vincent van Gogh. These works have people traveling from all over to see these famous works!

They also have programs for kids and plenty of lecture series with famous authors and artists. There’s a little something for everyone at this Texas museum!

Boca Chica Beach

Located in the southernmost part of Texas, this beach is considered a hidden Texas gem.

This beach is located near Corpus Christi and South Padre Island with a huge view of the border of Mexico! At Boca Chica Beach, you’ll find the clearest water in Texas. If that doesn’t sound like reason enough to stop and check out the beach, there’s always the special wildlife to entice you!

This beach is home to the critically endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle, and every Spring and Summer they nest on Boca Chica Beach!

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

One thing you have to experience while in Texas is the Guadalupe Mountains, National Park!

This Texas park is known for having the 4 highest peaks in Texas, and the stargazing on a clear night that is unlike anywhere else! From here, you can see over 11,000 stars and have a perfect view of the Milky Way!

You can also hike any of their numerous trails, or spend a few days camping on the land. If you’re crunched for time, you can visit their visitor’s center and spend some time in the museum!

The entrance fee to the park is $10, but worth every penny!

Castle Falkenstein

This Texas castle will feel straight out of a fairy tale!

This castle was created by Terry Young and his wife after a trip to Europe left them inspired to build a castle of their own in Texas.

Located in Burnet, part of Texas Hill Country, this castle is frequently used for privately hosted events, weddings, and even lodging rentals! If you’re looking for a fairy tale experience for your Texas trip, this castle is perfect for you!

Fall Foliage In Lost Maples State Park

If you find yourself in Texas during Fall, this location needs to be one of your first stops!

Here you’ll find Uvalde bigtooth maple trees that turn red, orange, and yellow during the fall season. The park even has a Fall Foliage Color Report that gets updated every week in November so that you can ensure you are going at a time when the colors are the most vibrant!

The park tends to fill to capacity quickly, especially the week of Thanksgiving, so make sure to head out there early!

San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the most famous attractions in Texas!

The River Walk is home to numerous hotels and dining experiences that will put you right into the heart of the River Walk. The River Walk also hosts festivals and parades year round.

Some of the most notable parades are the Parade of Lanterns and the Holiday River Parade!

You can also kayak in the San Antonio River Walk between March and September!

Jacob’s Well

Jacob’s Well is located in Hays County and is one of the most popular places in Texas! The natural well area is roughly 81 acres and is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily!

Jacob’s Well is the second-largest submerged cave in Texas and at its deepest point reaches 140-feet deep! People from all over come here to swim, so much so that you have to make a reservation to swim in the well!

The allowed time for each swim reservation is 2 hours, so make sure you plan your day for this! You can also hike in this area, and you do not need a reservation to hike, only to swim!

A Fabulous Weekend Getaway

While in Texas, you must have a fabulous weekend getaway at The Driskill Hotel in Austin!

The Driskill Hotel is located on 6th Street, which is one of Austin’s most famous streets! This street is historic and is home to the Austin nightlife and culture! The hotel is within a 10-minute walk from the State Capital Building.

The hotel is extremely luxurious and you will feel like a royal for the entire duration of your stay! You won’t want to come to Austin without spending a weekend treating yourself to this experience!

Go Camping At Palo Duro Canyon State Park

You can’t come to Texas without a camping trip! The perfect place to pitch a tent is at Palo Duro Canyon State Park! This state park is truly one of the best things to do in Texas!

This area is known as the Grand Canyon of Texas. Located in the Texas Panhandle, this park offers campsites in multiple different areas! All campsites in the area offer electricity, but you can opt-out of using it to get the full camping experience!

No matter which campsite you stay at, you are guaranteed views of the Palo Duro Canyon! It is truly one of the best things to do in Amarillo.

Visit Jester King Brewery

Are your really in Texas if you don’t stop at a brewery while you’re there?

Jester King Brewery is located in Austin, and it is much more than just a brewery! Here they serve pizza, wine, beer, and many events for their guests!

There is a nature trail located on the 165-acre ranch, and plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the brewery experience. They also host many summer concert series and Goat Yoga!

We know you’ll enjoy this Texas brewery!

Houston Museum Of Natural Science

One of the best things to do while in Texas is to visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science! The world around you will seem so much more interesting after a visit here!

There are many permanent exhibits here such as the Cabinet of Curiosities, Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, and the Morian Hall of Paleontology!

Not only do they have those awesome exhibits, you’ll also need to stop by the Burke Baker Planetarium and see Lamps of Atlantis and Black Holes, two very popular exhibits!

Tour Kyle Field

Being in Texas, one of the first connections you might make is Texas football! That’s why you should take a tour at Kyle Field, the largest stadium in Texas!

This stadium is the largest ranked by its 102,000 capacity limit. It’s located at the Texas A&M campus in College Station.

The tour lasts between 45 to 60 minutes and is a cheap fun way to experience the largest home to Texas football!

Coastal Texas Road Trip

With the Gulf of Mexico nearby, it’d be a shame to not take a coastal Texas road trip!

This road trip would take you through the most popular Texas towns on the coast like Galveston, Matagorda, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island.

At any of these stops, you can stop and explore the beaches, or take a dip in the warm waters thanks to the Gulf of Mexico!

You’ll find a uniqueness to each stop on this road trip that will keep you entertained for days!

Go To The Texas State Fair

If you’re in Texas during September or October, you must check out the Texas State Fair in Dallas!

This Texas fair is the longest-running fair in America, and even better, it is also the largest! This fair is home to Big Tex, the World’s Tallest Cowboy, and also a famous Texas icon!

Beginning in 1886, the Texas State Fair prides itself on promoting Texas traditions in Agriculture, Education, and Community Involvement.

When you’re in Texas, this will end up at the top of your list!

Visit The Fort Worth Zoo

This one is for animal lovers!

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Texas, and is home to 540 animal species! The zoo hosts special events all the time such as field trips, weddings, holiday parties, and corporate events!

Here you can interact up close and personal with sharks and stingrays! This is one of the reasons this zoo was ranked by USA Today as the number 5 zoo in the nation!

Get ready for an animal-filled day here!

Eat At Tito’s Mexican Restaurant

Tito’s Mexican Restaurant is located in San Antonio and is a great place to experience authentic Mexican food in Texas!

Tito’s is known famously for their Margarita/Tequila Bar, as well as their fajitas and enchiladas. Here you’ll get the taste of Mexico in Texas!

This San Antonio restaurant was established in 2003 in the Historic King William District! When you’re in Texas, you’ll want to make a stop here for delicious food and Happy Hour drinks!

Bat Watch At Congress Avenue Bridge

This is one experience in Texas that you simply can’t do anywhere else!

The Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Here, over 1.5 million bats reside during the summer before heading back to their home in Central Mexico for the fall.

The best time to view these night flyers is at dusk on any summer night! You can access the bridge for perfect viewing free of charge.

The largest bat colony in North America is waiting for you during your time in Texas!

Visit Space Center Houston

You definitely won’t want to miss out on this experience!

The Space Center Houston is one of the most popular places to visit in Texas. This is in part because it is home to NASA’s Mission Control Center!

Here, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of moon rocks, and you’ll see tons of NASA’s systems on display. If you’re here during the holidays, you’ll even get to experience Galaxy Lights, a holiday display that the center is famous for during the winter!

Start planning your trip to NASA!

The Fort Worth Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards is the perfect place to feel like you’re in an old Western movie!

The Fort Worth Stockyards is the perfect place to view a true Texas rodeo. There are also concerts and western theme shops all throughout the stockyards!

You can stop at the museum and learn about the history of Fort Worth while you buy the best pair of boots you can’t find anywhere else!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is one Texas location that you are able to leave your mark on the state!

Located in Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is an iconic fixture of Cadillac vehicles stationed in the ground, with years of layering from past visitors. People come from all over to spray paint their own mark on a vehicle!

You can bring your own spray paint, or you may be lucky enough to find a can that was left behind by a previous visitor!

You can also visit the visitor center and buy jewelry made from paint chips that have come off the cars! There’s no record of how many layers of paint are currently on this fixture!

Visit The Texas State Aquarium

In 2019, this Texas aquarium was voted by USA Today as the number 4 aquarium in America!

One of the coolest things about this aquarium is the 4 bottlenose dolphins they house in their Dolphin Bay exhibit! They also have a Saving Sharks exhibit where you can track tagged sharks in real-time!

Other popular exhibits here are Jungle, Caribbean Sea, and Living Shores. Each with something to teach you about wildlife and oceanic life.

You’ll want to make sure to stop here at least once while in Texas!

Visit The Gaylord Texan At Christmas

A Texas Christmas that you’ll remember can happen at the Gaylord Texan!

While Texas isn’t known for snow, that isn’t true for the Gaylord Texan. During the holidays, this hotel offers snow tubbing, snow throwing, various snow slides, as well as its famous ICE! show.

The ICE! show is a 9-degree ice showing of a true winter wonderland. You’ll want to pack a coat and mittens for this experience!

One thing you need to do is.. remember the Alamo! You can’t come to Texas without stopping at this historic marker.

The Alamo is known as the Shrine of Texas Liberty, and there’s no doubt that this is a huge piece of Texas history! You’ll be able to take a guided tour and see everything the Alamo has to offer.

Make sure to walk through the Living History and talk to the Living Historians. Here you’ll get an up-close and personal take on what life was like during the 1800s and even learn about events surrounding the Battle of the Alamo in 1836!

Texas is one of the largest states in America, and that means there are a lot of things to experience in Texas! Whether you want to spend a weekend getaway somewhere, are looking for the best place to see various animal species, or you just want to see what makes Texas.. well Texas!

There is something unique in Texas for everyone. We know you’ll love the stops on this list!

Reader Interactions

October 10, 2023 at 9:21 pm

As a native Texan I have fond memories of most of the these. Even though I spent most of my art education career taking my students to the Dallas Museum of Art, it is not my favorite museum in Texas. The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston and the Kimbell in Ft Worth also have internationally acclaimed collections. Each have their collection of quality pieces and host international touring exhibits of masterpieces.

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Texas

Written by Lana Law Updated Oct 6, 2023

Whether you're interested in a city getaway, a nature escape, a beach vacation, or finding an authentic off-the-beaten-path small town, Texas has everything you're looking for and more. This state is brimming with countless possibilities for fun and adventure.

While metropolitan centers like Houston , Austin , and Dallas are the usual go-to destinations for culture, shopping, dining, and action, these cities only scratch the surface. Geographically and culturally diverse, the state offers a wealth of unique attractions and things to do.

San Antonio , famous for the Alamo and the River Walk, is a must-see city if you're going to Texas.

West Texas is one of my favorite places. Big Bend National Park is home to a stunning desert landscape, and the tiny towns in the surrounding area are full of character and characters. Cities like Amarillo or Lubbock are a stark contrast to the larger centers and are easy places to visit, with great food and unusual sights.

In the warmer months head to the coast to experience a whole other side of Texas. Enjoy beaches, fishing, and fabulous seafood in places like Galveston, South Padre Island, or Corpus Christie .

For more ideas on where to go and what to see, have a read through our list of top tourist attractions in Texas.

1. San Antonio's River Walk

2. the alamo, 3. space center houston, 4. big bend national park, 5. padre island national seashore, 6. the texas state capitol in austin, 7. the sixth floor museum, dallas, 8. guadalupe mountains national park, 9. the fort worth stockyards, 10. galveston's beaches & strand historic district, 11. the uss lexington, corpus christi, 12. cadillac ranch, amarillo, 13. natural bridge caverns, 14. houston's museum district, 15. gruene historic district, new braunfels, 16. dallas arboretum, 17. fort worth zoo, 18. national museum of the pacific war, 19. texas state aquarium, 20. lubbock.

Stretching for several miles along the San Antonio River in the heart of the city, the River Walk is lined with restaurants and lovely outdoor patios, where you can sit and dine alongside the river. Built below street level, this pedestrian walkway hugs the river as it winds and weaves through the city, and is as popular among locals as it is for tourists, day and night.

Although strolling along the river is the most popular thing to do here, another great way to enjoy the ambience of the area is on a leisurely cruise on a river boat . These run all the time and range from standard sightseeing trips to dinner cruises.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

The Alamo is one of the most important historic sites in America. Part of a mission station established in 1718, it was built by Franciscans in 1744 and by 1836, had been converted into a fort.

It became famous during the Texas Revolution, when a small force, including Davie Crockett and James Bowie, barricaded themselves in against an overwhelmingly superior Mexican army some 3,000 strong. While the defeat saw all 187 defenders killed, the cry of "Remember the Alamo!" rallied the state to eventually overcome the Mexicans.

The restored buildings and the cenotaph commemorating the fallen Texans is well worth a visit. Inside is a museum with changing displays, featuring weapons and artifacts related to the events and the history of the mission.

If you have time, it's worth visiting some of the other missions in the area, which are all part of the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, and connected by the Mission Trail .

Official site: https://www.thealamo.org/

Just 30 minutes' drive from the heart of Houston, Space Center Houston is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas. This is a wonderful place to learn about space exploration, upcoming missions, NASA's latest projects, and possibly even meet an astronaut. Space Center Houston is also home to Johnson Space Center and Mission Control , which can be visited on a tour.

You'll need to plan to spend at least a half-day exploring the entire complex. The whole place is huge, the exhibits engaging, and time flies by unexpectedly even if you aren't a huge fan of space travel.

You can explore a space shuttle replica mounted on a shuttle carrier and walk through a replica of America's first space station, Skylab. The museum also features rockets, moon rocks and Mars rocks.

From downtown Houston, Space Center Houston is about a 30-minute drive. From Galveston, it's closer to a 40-minute drive. It can be easily visited from either destination.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Houston

In the Chihuahuan Desert of West Texas, on a huge bend in the Rio Grande River, lies some of the most dramatic and uniquely beautiful scenery in the state. Mountains, canyons, and the river flowing along the border, separating the United States from Mexico, offer a diverse range of recreational and sightseeing opportunities for visitors to Big Bend National Park.

While most people simply enjoy touring along the roads, the park offers a full range of things to do. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the extensive network of hiking trails and the beautiful campgrounds . Paddling along the Rio Grande or enjoying a picnic and wading into the water are other popular activities on warm days.

With more than 400 species of birds, birdwatching is another prominent pastime in the park, but even if you are not looking for them, you are likely to see roadrunners darting across the roads or trails.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Big Bend National Park

The world's longest undeveloped barrier island, Padre Island is just a short drive south of Corpus Christi and stretches 70 miles from end to end. One of the most important conservation areas in Texas, Padre Island consists of more than 130,000 acres of beach, dunes, and grassland habitats, and is home to rare sea turtles and countless migratory birds, making it a birder's paradise. In fact, 350 different species visit this stopover on the Central Flyway migratory route.

The Malaquite Visitor Center is the best place to begin your visit to this beautiful coastal region of the Gulf of Mexico. It provides plenty of information, as well as assistance for those with mobility issues, including specially adapted beach wheelchairs.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do on South Padre Island

The Texas State Capitol, built in 1888, is considered one of the finest state legislatures in the US. In Austin's downtown core and now a National Historic Landmark, it certainly impresses with its dimensions, standing 308 feet tall.

Highlights of its 22-acre park include monuments to the defenders of the Alamo and to veterans of the Vietnam War. Guided tours of the building's interior are available and start from the visitor center with its many displays. At dusk, head across to the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge for a chance to witness the spectacle of a million or so Mexican free-tailed bats coming and going from their perches under the bridge.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austin
• Best Day Trips from Austin

It was from the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository in Dallas that the fatal shot that took President John F. Kennedy's life was fired. Now home to The Sixth Floor Museum, this tall red-brick building offers a detailed account of the assassination, as well as Kennedy's legacy. Highlights include accounts of his presidential campaign and term as president, all supported by historic footage, photos, and artifacts.

Also worth a visit while exploring downtown Dallas is the nearby John F. Kennedy Memorial , a huge monument dedicated to President Kennedy unveiled in 1970.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dallas & Easy Day Trips

In the northwestern corner of the state, approximately 100 miles east of El Paso, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas. It's also known for an abundance of wildlife, including golden eagles.

The landscape itself is stunning, especially around the towering El Capitan, as well as the Guadalupe Peak, the highest elevation in Texas. It's also tremendously popular with hikers thanks to its more than 80 miles of trails through spectacular woodland canyons and lush springs. Be sure to stop in at the visitor center in Pine Springs for information on the park, including details of hiking and biking trails.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in El Paso

The Stockyards National Historic District remains Fort Worth's biggest draw. Founded in 1866, the area took its name from the cattle industry, as it was here that millions of cattle were rested, sorted, or shipped out to other points across the state.

The last surviving facility of its kind in the US, these historic stockyards have been transformed into a splendid attraction consisting of all sorts of fun things to see, including rodeos, concerts, theatrical performances, and western-themed shopping . Highlights include cattle driving demonstrations and a chance to saddle up for some trail riding.

Be sure to check out the Stockyards Visitor Center and the Stockyards Museum , both of which provide information regarding current events as well as the history of this fun area of Fort Worth.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fort Worth

Like numerous spots along the Texas Gulf Coast, Galveston is home to beautiful beaches that stretch on for miles. The shallow and often calm water makes this a popular area for families and beachgoers. In summer, set up your beach umbrella along the Seawall or enjoy some fun and games at the Pleasure Pier .

But this is more than just a beach town, with plenty to do here all year long. Explore the Strand Historic District in downtown, a National Historic Landmark District, and wander past the ornate Victorian-style mansions that line the quiet streets. If you are traveling with kids, be sure to stop by Moody Gardens and Aquarium . This huge complex, with its landmark glass pyramids, is home to an aquarium, a rainforest, and an amusement park.

If you want to get out on the water, Galveston is also one of the best places in Texas for deep sea fishing . You can fish here year-round, although some of the best months are during the summer.

Galveston is less than an hour's drive from Houston and only about 45 minutes from Space Center Houston.

• Best Beaches in Galveston
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Galveston

Moored off the shore just a few minutes' stroll from the center of Corpus Christi, the mighty USS Lexington is one of the largest surviving vessels to have served in WWII. This important aircraft carrier was launched in 1943 and now serves as a naval museum .

On display are a large collection of vintage aircraft, and visitors can see the bridge and crew quarters. Also fun are the simulators and games, as well as a 3D movie that puts you in the pilot's seat. You can also opt for the four-hour Hard Hat Tour, which takes you into the very heart of the ship.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Corpus Christi & Easy Day Trips

Cadillac Ranch is one of West Texas' most iconic sites. Standing in a line, nose first into the ground, it might seem like an odd attraction. But visitors come here in large numbers, not only to see and photograph this colorful spectacle, they also come here to leave their mark, at least for a short while.

The artwork on the vehicles is an ever-changing canvas, with almost everyone adding their own creative mark to the Cadillacs. You are welcome to spray paint your own design . The layers of paint on these cars is hard to determine, but outside the gate, vendors sell paint chips from the cars, in jewelry settings.

While you may hear you should bring a spray can, there is no need. You can find spray cans of all colors left here on the ground from the thousands of others who have come before.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Amarillo

Just a short drive from San Antonio, the spectacular Natural Bridge Caverns are part of a vast underground network consisting of more than 10,000 different stalactite formations. The largest such cave network in the US accessible to the public, Natural Bridge Caverns includes highlights such as the 40-foot-high King's Throne, a massive wall of stalactites found in one of the largest caverns, the Castle of the White Giants.

Taking its name from the huge 60-foot limestone bridge spanning its entrance, Natural Bridge Caverns also offers a number of other fun activities, including themed tours. Up top are other attractions, including a treetop climbing adventure across a sprawling network of ropeways, platforms, and ziplines.

New in 2023 is the Hidden Wonders Tour, a sound and light show complemented by the "BAT" (belt assisted transport), a conveyor belt that moves you through and eventually out of the cavern.

Official Site: https://naturalbridgecaverns.com/

In the heart of downtown Houston is the city's lovely Museum District, home to 19 museums, some of which are free. Many of the museums in this area are within walking distance of each other.

Two of the key highlights here are the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and the Houston Museum of Natural Science , but the district houses a mix of quality museums, including a Holocaust museum, a children's museum, and some smaller art museums, which are well worth your time.

• Read More: Top-Rated Museums in Houston

Just a short drive from San Antonio is the small town of New Braunfels, known for its charming Greuene Historic District. One of the main attractions is the historic Gruene Hall , the oldest dance hall in Texas, operating continuously since 1878. Performances run nightly, and some of the biggest names in country music perform here, in this small venue. Children are allowed, and kids under 10 receive a discount on admission at the door.

The Grist Mill Restaurant , on the edge of the Guadalupe River makes a nice destination for day trippers who want to come for lunch. In the spring, the water is packed with people tubing down the river. And don't miss stopping by the General Store , where time seems to have stopped several decades ago.

The Dallas Arboretum is one of the top botanical gardens in the United States. Beautifully laid out over 66 acres, these gardens should be on your list of "things to do" while in the city. Located on the shores of White Rock Lake, the gardens are easily reached from downtown.

The gardens are an oasis of calm and color amid the hustle and bustle of Dallas. You can wander at will through the various gardens and flowering plants, or make a beeline for some of the top attractions. One of the marquee gardens within the park is the Woman's Garden , where you'll find an infinity pool, aquatic plants, fountains, and sculptures.

The six-and-a-half-acre Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden is a stunning display of over 2,000 azaleas. The garden is especially vibrant in the spring, when the accompanying daffodils and tulips burst into bloom. Later in the summer, other plants like tapioca and bananas bloom in their unique ways, and the fall brings on the chrysanthemums. Large manicured lawns fill in the spaces between the gardens and are a lovely place to sit and enjoy a coffee or have a picnic with the family.

The on-site Café on the Green or the Lula Mae Slaughter Dining Terrace offer al fresco seating with views of the gardens and downtown Dallas.

Official site: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/

One of the best family outings in the state, the Fort Worth Zoo is a fun and enjoyable thing to do when visiting town. First opened in 1909, the zoo is now home to over 540 species of mammals, birds, and ectotherms. The zoo is expanding and growing with the infusion of a $100 million capital campaign.

At the Fort Worth Zoo, nine different habitats are available for viewing, ranging from the wilds of the African savannah to the chilly waters of the penguin habitat, right through to the inhabitants of the Australian Outback and Great Barrier Reef.

In addition to the various habitats, the zoo also has an area that children will love, the Toyota Children's Ranch & Petting Corral. Here, miniature donkeys, goats, sheep, and other typical farm animals exist in a setting that allows for easy petting and great photos.

Official site: https://www.fortworthzoo.org/

One of the most interesting war museums in Texas is the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg. Well-thought-out exhibits trace the history of the war in the Pacific, an aspect of WWII that many people may not be overly familiar with.

Highlights of a visit here include the Pearl Harbor Exhibit, complete with an intact Japanese midget submarine HA-19; the Doolittle Raid exhibit, showcasing the resorted B-25 Mitchell bomber; and an exhibit on the background of the ferocious 36-day battle on Iwo Jima.

One particularly chilling exhibit is of the Fat Man bomb casing. It's hard to fathom that such a small bomb could be responsible for over 100,000 deaths in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Official site: https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/

If you find yourself down in Corpus Christie, be sure to swing by the Texas State Aquarium. This state-of-the-art facility showcases all the wonderful and weird animals that inhabit our oceans. Sixteen different habitats are home to a wide variety of fish, mammals, and other denizens of the deep.

During your visit, a must-see is the H-E-B Caribbean Sea exhibit, home to North America's largest viewing window. The 68-foot-long window makes you feel like you are right underwater. In addition, a walking tunnel through the middle of the exhibit, full of sharks and other predators, adds to the thrill.

It's not all underwater at the Texas State Aquarium. Above-water action is supplied by three North American river otters. Arthur, Merlin, and Fisher provide non-stop otter antics that will have you smiling and laughing.

These are just some of the attractions at the aquarium. Many more are waiting for you and your family to explore, including the H-E-B Splash Park (included with your admission) and up-close and personal animal interactions (additional fee)

Official site: https://www.texasstateaquarium.org/

West Texas holds many attractions and one of the best is the dynamic city of Lubbock . People of a certain vintage will be well aware of the city's most famous citizen, Buddy Holly . Forever immortalized with an excellent array of memorabilia in a fantastic museum, the Buddy Holly Center (you can't miss the giant glasses out front). This tribute to the musician is a must-see for music lovers.

Not to be confused with the center, new as of 2021 is the architecturally stunning Buddy Holly Hall , Lubbock's main location for a non-stop roster of performers.

But the city is much more than just Buddy Holly's history. This is an artsy up-and-coming place with farmer's markets and incredible new restaurants while still staying true to its ranching roots.

Lubbock's Cultural District is home to fine art galleries, pottery studios, and music venues. In fact, Lubbock has the most music-performing venues on a per capita basis in the entire state.

All that exploring will bring on a Texas-sized appetite and on this front, Lubbock has you well covered. Home to a variety of restaurants you'll be spoiled for choice. Fine dining aficionados with a taste for European fare will want to make a beeline for Chef Finn Walter's Nicolett . Those looking for Texas originals should go to Dirk's for chicken fried steak and other artery-clogging delicacies. The next morning do what the locals do, eat pie for breakfast at the Cast Iron Grill .

More on Texas

26 Best Things to Do in Texas We Recommend in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

United States

Published On: April 2, 2024

So you’re planning a trip to Texas, the second-largest state in the United States. That sounds like a lovely idea, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to help with your itinerary preparation! The Lone Star State is massive, and planning a trip can be overwhelming if you’re not acquainted with its top attractions. 

Texas is known for cowboy culture, tasty Tex-Mex food, space exploration, and varied landscapes. Traverse through the deserts in the west or stroll down the beaches in the east. Tour museums to learn about the state’s rich and tumultuous history, and head to national and state parks to climb mountains and swim in natural pools. 

Maybe you’re more about fun and exciting things to do, and that’s okay. There’s absolutely no shortage of thrilling activities in Texas, whether that’s riding the longest zipline in the state or free-falling from 16 stories at Six Flags. 

Whatever it is you enjoy the most, I’m certain that at least a few of these awesome things to do in Texas will end up on your itinerary! 

Best Things To Do In Texas

The best things to do in Texas range from historic landmarks like the Alamo to the NASA Space Center in Houston, and there are at least two dozen activities in between. The southern state can appeal to anyone, which is just one of many reasons why 250+ million people visit it every single year. 

I’ve included a good mix of city attractions and natural landmarks, so there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to visit museums and explore historic monuments or spend your time in Texas wandering around its national parks and marveling at the diverse landscapes, I’ve got you covered! 

Best of Texas Quick Guide

• Must-See: The Alamo, NASA Space Center Houston, Texas Capitol, Dealey Plaza, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Dallas Historic Fair Park,   
• Where To Stay: Magnolia Hotel Downtown Dallas , Hyatt Place Austin Downtown , La Colombe d’Or Hotel (Houston)  
• Fun To Do: USS Lexington, San Antonio River Walk, The Reunion Tower, Lake Travis Zipline, Six Flags Over Texas 
• Day Trips: South Padre Island , Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Big Bend National Park, Palo Duro Canyon State Park
• Must-Try Foods: Puffy tacos, Chili, Nachos, Barbecue, Steak

1. History Lesson at The Alamo

The Alamo is a historic landmark in San Antonio and one of the state’s most important attractions. It’s a symbol of the Texas Revolution and is famous worldwide for the Battle of the Alamo. The former mission church now operates as a museum with artifacts from the revolution era. 

Because this is one of the most popular landmarks in the entire state, it tends to be crowded all the time. I recommend booking a guided tour because the guides will tell you many stories about the Alamo’s history, plus you’ll get to skip all the lines. 

Bonus points if you can find an evening tour because the Alamo is rumored to be one of San Antonio’s best spots for ghost tours!  

Practical Information: The Alamo Exhibit’s admission fee is $14, but a more comprehensive tour of the entire complex costs $45. 

2. Camp at Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas is one of the best destinations for hikers and mountaineers in the state. It’s home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest summit in Texas, rising to an altitude of 8,751 feet. Pretty impressive for a desert! 

Other interesting attractions at the national park include the ruins of a stagecoach station, a stone cabin from the 1930s, and the restored Frijole Ranch, with a small exhibit on local history. All the notable sights are accessible by hiking trails, making this park a must-visit if you enjoy embarking on outdoor adventures. 

Camping is another popular activity in the national park. If you’re road-tripping through Texas in a campervan or an RV, consider staying here for a few nights. 

Practical Information: The visitor’s center at the Guadalupe Mountains National Park is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. The standard entrance fee is $10.  

3. Explore Natural Bridge Caverns 

Natural Bridge Caverns is the largest underground cave system in the state. San Antonio is the closest city to Natural Bridge Caverns, and Austin isn’t too far away, either. 

Come here to tour the unique geological formations of the subterranean caves. Guided tours of the cave system are available every day, and everyone is welcome. However, the caves are uncharacteristically hot and humid, so it’s not necessarily an enjoyable experience for everyone. 

There’s also an adventure course above the ground, with rope courses, a maze, and several zip rails. Some of the activities are specifically designed for children, so visitors of all ages can have fun here. 

Practical Information: Tours of Natural Bridge Caverns occur daily, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It’s $30-50 per person for a tour, depending on the type of tour you choose. 

4. Beach Time at South Padre Island

Situated off the coast of southern Texas, South Padre Island is a resort town known for sandy beaches and excellent resorts. If you want to spend a day or two relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sound of the whooshing waves, definitely add it to your Texas itinerary. 

The resort town is set on Padre Island, a barrier island that stretches for a whopping 113 miles. It’s the only tropical island in Texas and one of the best destinations in the state if your idea of a relaxing vacation includes sipping cocktails on the beach. 

Practical Information: South Padre Island is in southern Texas, close to the border with Mexico. The resort town is roughly a three-hour drive from Corpus Christi. 

5. Check Out The Mummies At The Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the best in the state and a must-visit if you’re in the city. Its exhibits include dinosaur bones, Egyptian mummies, and rare gemstones. 

I like how the museum also boasts lots of interactive exhibits, which are particularly fun for the youngest visitors. They can attempt to excavate a dinosaur and play around with chemical elements, which is not only loads of fun but also a great learning opportunity.

Practical Information: The Houston Museum of Natural Science is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Adult general admission is $25.

6. Learn About Space Exploration at NASA Space Center Houston

If you’re even a little bit interested in space travel, NASA Space Center Houston might just be the highlight of your trip to Texas. Book a tram tour of the complex for the most comprehensive tour of the grounds. You will also see the NASA Johnson Space Center, which is the actual training site for astronauts. 

The tram tours take you to the Mission Control Center too, where you can catch an in-depth presentation of the 1969 Moon Landing. Other exhibits include a collection of spacesuits, the Starship Gallery, and an International Space Station Gallery that offers insight into life on the space station. Overall, this is by far one of the best things to do in Houston , and it’s exciting for visitors of all ages. 

Insider Tip: Tram tours sometimes sell out weeks in advance, so book yours as soon as possible. 

Practical Information: NASA Space Center Houston is open for tours from 10 AM to 5/6 PM. Tickets are $30-55, depending on what tour you want. 

7. Walk Around The Largest State Capitol Building 

Everything is bigger in Texas, so it’s not surprising that the state Capitol building in Austin is the largest one in the United States. The Texas state capitol offers free guided tours that take only about 30 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the rest of Austin while you’re in the city. 

But first, don’t miss the chance to tour the capitol grounds. The building is set in a sprawling park with walking trails that lead to different monuments and memorials. 

Practical Information: Free guided tours of the Capitol building are available from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. 

8. Bike Tour of Fort Worth

Texas is widely known for cowboy culture, and few places illustrate this, as well as Fort Worth. The city is famous for its Stockyards National Historic District, which hosts the daily cattle procession and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. The historic district is also a top location for ghost tours and pub crawls , which offer even more insight into the local culture. 

But the Stockyards district is only one neighborhood in this city, and certainly not the only one worth exploring. A bike tour is the best option for a day full of sightseeing, and it will allow you to explore more of Fort Worth’s famous landmarks. You must stop by the Fort Worth Water Gardens. The sprawling public park has an awesome fountain reminiscent of an oasis in the middle of the desert. 

Head to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden for even more lovely water features and the chance to see one of the best Japanese Gardens in the United States. In the afternoon, take the time to tour a museum in the city’s Cultural District. The Kimbell Art Museum boasts an excellent collection of European and Asian art, while the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame celebrates the women of the Wild West.

Practical Information: Bike tours of Fort Worth take 3-4 hours. The Botanical Garden and museums are usually open until 5 PM.  

9. Tour USS Lexington in Corpus Christi 

How often do you get a chance to walk aboard a World War II aircraft carrier? A trip to Texas is the ideal opportunity to cross this off your bucket list if only you head to the lovely waterfront city of Corpus Christi. 

On a self-guided tour, discover 20 different aircraft aboard the carrier and do your best to solve an exclusive escape room on the USS Lexington. There’s even an IMAX theater where you can watch historic films and a flight simulator that allows you to discover what it’s like to fly a warplane.  

Practical Information: USS Lexington is open for tours daily from 9 AM to 5/6 PM. The admission fee is $20.95 for adults. 

10. Admire The Flowers At The Dallas Arboretum

Set on the shore of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the best attractions in the Lone Star State. The arboretum spans 66 acres and features many miles of walking trails and countless flowers in a serene lakefront setting. 

One thing I love about this place is that their exhibit is heavily dependent on the season. If you visit in the spring, you’ll see loads of pretty flowers in bloom, but come to the arboretum in the winter, and you’ll witness one of the best Christmas displays in Texas. Even if you’ve been here before, there’s merit in revisiting, especially if you’ve been there in a different season. 

Practical Information: The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The admission fee is $22 for adults. 

11. Do The San Antonio River Walk

There are many fun and interesting attractions in San Antonio , but the River Walk is by far the most famous one in the city after the Alamo. The promenade follows the San Antonio River for around 15 miles, and much of it is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. 

The best way to experience the downtown San Antonio River Walk is to get in a boat and cruise down the river for about 30 minutes. If you’re in the city for a day or two, I highly recommend you do this cruise in the evening for the most special experience. The boats light up in neon colors, and the bars and restaurants fill up with locals and tourists. 

Practical Information : The San Antonio River Walk promenade is free to access. Boat rides are $14.5 and take place every 15-20 minutes. 

12. Indulge in Tex-Mex Cuisine

Food is one of the best things about traveling to Texas. Because Texas is such a large state, its cuisine is influenced by multiple cultures and regions. The foods in Texas range from traditional southern Tex-Mex to classic Native American, and there’s absolutely no shortage of tasty dishes to try. 

Chili, fajitas, enchiladas, and nachos are some of the most popular Tex-Mex dishes, but certainly not the only ones. Steak and barbeque are also big in Texas, and you’ll have endless opportunities to try hearty meat dishes. 

Any Texas city is a good place for a food tour , but if you’re looking for the absolute best I have to recommend San Antonio. The city’s Market Square is known for vendors with delicious Tex-Mex dishes, plus it’s the birthplace of the puffy taco!

Practical Information: Food tours are available in all major cities in Texas. They usually last 2-4 hours. 

13. Hike To The Top of Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock is a mountain summit deep in the Texas Hill Country. It’s close to San Antonio and Austin, so it’s relatively easy to visit on a quick road trip from either city. 

The summit is known for two things – its dome-like shape and pink color. Hiking paths take you from the trailhead to the top of Enchanted Rock in less than an hour, where you can enjoy endless panoramic views of hill country. 

It’s generally not a difficult hike, but the ascent is quite steep, so it’s recommended for hikers with some experience. Weather conditions also impact the difficulty, as the trail becomes much more challenging in wet weather. 

Insider Tip: The hike is on exposed terrain, so remember sunscreen and a hat. 

Practical Information: The Enchanted Rock Nature Park is open from 6:30?AM to 8 PM. Admission fee is $8.

14. Visit The Historic Fair Park in Dallas

The Dallas Fair Park is home to the Texas State Fair, and it’s by far one of the top places in the city for an afternoon full of fun, excitement, and delicious fried food. Big Tex is the fair mascot, and he’s famous for being the world’s tallest cowboy. 

Attending the fair for the first time is an overwhelming experience. There’s just so much to do there, from pumpkin competitions to carnival rides. Food stalls are everywhere, and the scents are so inviting – even if you don’t arrive hungry, it will be practically impossible to resist picking up some snacks. 

 You can test drive cars, attend a rodeo, ride Ferris Wheels, and shop until you drop. The vendors sell everything from artisan soap to classic souvenirs. Just keep in mind that everything costs money, and trying many different activities at the fair can quickly become very expensive.

Practical Information: The State Fair of Texas is open from 10 AM to 9/10 PM. Entrance to the Fair Park is free of charge unless there is a special event on the grounds. 

15. Kayaking At Big Bend National Park

Situated in southwest Texas on the border with Mexico, Big Bend National Park is a great collection of mixed landscapes. The park spans 801,163 acres and encompasses The Chisos Mountains, the Chihuahuan Desert, and the canyons carved by the Rio Grande River. 

This national park is very popular for outdoor activities. It features numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking and mountain climbing. If you like exploring the great outdoors and possibly even camping in the wilderness, the Big Bend National Park is the place to be in Texas. 

Practical Information: The Big Bend National Park is open 24/7. The entrance fee is $15 for pedestrians but $30 for private vehicles. 

16. Bullock Texas State History Museum

Is there a better place to visit than a museum dedicated to telling the story of Texas over the years? The Bullock Texas State History Museum is just a few blocks from the Capitol building in Austin, so pay it a visit if you want to become an expert on all things Texas. 

The main exhibit spans three floors and features more than 700 artifacts recounting Texas’s history from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. Learn about the European explorers who arrived in Texas with the hope of striking gold and the darker side of Texas history during the divisive Civil War. 

Practical Information: The Bullock Texas State History Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Museum tickets are $13. 

17. Biking At Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located near Amarillo in northern Texas, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is an excellent place for hikers and mountain bikers. Visitors can discover the diverse scenery of this magnificent state and attend a musical show in the park’s open-air amphitheater. 

Traverse the NP’s hiking and biking trails to visit unusual rock formations and enjoy the views of the US’ second-largest canyon system. Palo Duro is also home to many native plant and animal species and is a very popular spot for birdwatching in northern Texas. The largest population of Palo Duro mice lives at this park, but it’s unlikely you’ll spot one because they tend to hide in the canyon walls and come out only at night. 

Practical Information: The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is open from 7 AM to 9 PM. The entrance fee is $8. 

18. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

The assassination of John F. Kennedy remains one of the most shocking events in United States history. The president was shot while riding along the streets of Dallas by Lee Harvey Oswald, who was hiding on the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository. 

The entire sixth floor of the historic building is now open for tours and features an in-depth exhibit on the fourth assassination of a US president. It is a fascinating exhibit, complete with a replica of the rifle discovered at the scene of the crime.

The museum exhibit also includes a miniature replica of Dealey Plaza and JFK’s motorcade. Each artifact on display is accompanied by a detailed description and additional photographs that further illustrate its history and significance. 

Practical Information: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets are $25. 

19. Enjoy The View of Dallas From The Reunion Tower

The Reunion Tower is only the 16th tallest building in Dallas but by far the best one for panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Come here for a Dallas vista unlike any other, preferably at nighttime when all the street lights come on, and you can experience the city in full glory. The observation deck is at an altitude of 470 feet and offers sweeping, 360-degree views of Dallas. 

Spot the Dealey Plaza buildings and all the iconic skyscrapers of Dallas. My favorite is the view of the Bank of America Plaza at night; the building lights up in neon colors, looking like something straight out of a futuristic video game. 

Practical Information: The Reunion Tower is open for visits from 12 PM to 8 PM. Tickets are $19. 

20. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is Texas’ only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come here to discover four incredible historic buildings, constructed by Spanish colonists to spread Christianity among the native population. 

The National Historical Park is only part of the UNESCO Site; the fifth and most important Mission is the Alamo, situated in a different part of San Antonio. The Espada Aqueduct is another sight not to be missed in this San Antonio park. 

You can tour the park on foot, by bike, or even in a car. Cycling tours are generally the best because you can move throughout the area at a quicker pace, but still stop by every Mission to check it out more thoroughly. A trail for hikers is available at the park, and it takes roughly four and a half hours to cover the entire grounds from Mission Concepcion to Mission Espada and back. 

Practical Information: The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park operates from sunrise to sunset daily. Admission is free of charge. 

21. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures

Head to Lake Travis, northwest of Austin, to experience the fastest and longest ziplines in the state. It’s one of the best things to do in Texas for travelers who are always looking for the next adrenaline rush. As a bonus, you get to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the Texas Hill Country as you soar through the air. 

Tickets for the Lake Travis Zipline Adventures are expensive but include several different activities. You get to cruise the lake in a boat, hike over stunning landscapes, and ride no less than five different ziplines at the park. 

You’ll start with the easier ziplines, the so-called “bunny slopes”. Gradually you’ll move onto the higher and faster rides, and your three-hour experience culminates with a ride on a zipline that’s over 2800 feet long. You’ll reach speeds of up to 65 mph as you rush down, and you’ll land right at the concession stand. Treat yourself to an ice cream because you’ve most certainly deserved it! 

Practical Information: Lake Travis Zipline Adventures operates rides from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM. It’s $141 per person for a three-hour adventure that includes all five ziplines. 

22. Have Fun At Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas is the largest amusement park in the state, covering more than 200 acres. Situated in Arlington, it is most easily accessible from Dallas and Fort Worth. 

There are more than 50 rides at this Six Flags amusement park, as well as live music performances and family-friendly shows. If you’re traveling through Texas with children, this is by far one of the best places in the state where you can take them. 

The park is mostly known for its kid and family-friendly rides, but it also boasts loads of thrill rides that are not for the faint of heart. My favorite activity is a seasonal Dive Bomber Alley, which replicates the feeling of skydiving. You’re dropped from 16 stories and experience an incredible free fall, reaching speeds of 80 mph until the steel cable catches you.

Practical Information: Six Flags Over Texas is open on the weekends and select weekdays, from 12 PM to 7 PM. Daily passes start at $55. 

23. Mammoth Remains At Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is one of the best detours on a Texas road trip. If you’re driving between Austin and Dallas, this dig site is roughly halfway between the two cities. Stop by to see actual mammoth remains that are more than 65,000 years old. 

It’s surreal to know you’re looking at fossils of animals that roamed these grounds tens of thousands of years ago. Go for the guided tour and you’ll hear the story of the flash flood that is thought to have killed the animals. Without the tour, you’re kind of just looking at animal bones and it’s harder to see the bigger picture. 

Practical Information: Waco Mammoth National Monument is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The park is free of charge, but the dig site has a $6 admission fee.  

24. Cool Off At Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve

The Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve is a natural swimming pool some 30 miles west of Austin. Come here to swim in the serene waters of a natural pool surrounded by a grotto. There’s even a cascade rushing over the rocks into the natural pool, provided it’s not a particularly dry season. 

One thing to keep in mind is that the pool is quite small and can get crowded really fast. You must make reservations online before visiting, and even then it’s not guaranteed that you’ll be able to swim. Get there as early as possible, and with a bit of luck, you might have this lovely place all to yourself. 

Practical Information: The Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve is open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. The fee for daily use is $20, and it includes an obligatory reservation. Only cash is accepted at the entrance. 

25. Wine Tasting In Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country is home to roughly 60 wineries, most offering tours and tastings. Arrange a guided excursion to one or more boutique wineries, and you’ll tour vineyards and learn about the differences between the local wines made in Texas. 

You’ll also get to taste many of the best local wines, and that’s precisely why it’s best to book a guided tour. Driving to your wine tasting is not a good idea, especially if you want to have fun and let loose. Becker Vineyards, Fall Creek Vineyards, and  Invention Vineyards are some of the most popular in the region.  

A lunch is usually included in the tasting, and you can often make arrangements about the food with the tour guides. Some tours will even have a private chef take care of the lunch, which elevates this experience to the next level. 

Practical Information:  Winery tours in Texas usually depart from Fredericksburg and last for 5-6 hours. 

26. Ancient Artworks At The Dallas Museum of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art has one of the best art collections in the entire state. Anyone can see the museum’s permanent collection without spending any money, making it one of the best free things to do in Dallas. 

The DMA’s collection includes textiles from Japan’s Edo Period, Islamic art, impressionist paintings, and much more. It’s an impressive exhibit that will make any art lover happy, especially because prominent artists like Matisse, Monet, and Munch are featured at this museum. 

Practical Information: The Dallas Museum of Art is open from 11 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Sunday. Admission to the museum’s main exhibit is free, but there’s usually a surcharge for temporary and special exhibits.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the #1 tourist attraction in Texas?

The Alamo is still the #1 tourist attraction in Texas. The historic mission is part of the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, and it’s one of the most significant historic landmarks in the United States. 

What is Texas most famous for?

Texas is most famous for its traditional cowboy culture with rodeos, cattle, and vast ranches. The state is also known for its massive cities, diverse landscapes, delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, and classic Southern hospitality. 

Which city is better to visit in Texas?

The best city to visit in Texas depends on your interests, but most people agree San Antonio is the best city. Austin, Dallas, and Houston are also great cities to visit in Texas. 

What is the nicest place to visit in Texas?

South Padre Island is the nicest place to visit in Texas. With sprawling white-sand beaches and picturesque landscapes, the tropical island is an oasis of serenity in South Texas. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Texas

Best Time To Visit

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Texas. If possible, avoid traveling in the summer because it gets unbearably hot. Also, the crowds are quite big in the summer months, which makes it less enjoyable to explore the popular attractions and landmarks. 

March-May and September-November are the ideal times to travel to Texas. I say go early in March or late in November if you want to avoid crowds as much as possible, but choose a period closer to the summer months if you’re fine with some crowds as long as it means nice weather. 

Getting There

The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is the second-busiest airport in the United States, servicing more than 35 million passengers annually. You’ll likely arrive at this airport, which makes Dallas the best starting point for a trip to Texas. 

Other major airports in the state are Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso. They’re all international airports, and you can fly to any one of them if it better suits your itinerary. But in terms of efficiency and value for money, the busiest airport in the state is usually the cheapest one to travel to. 

Getting Around

Texas is the largest state in the contiguous United States, and traveling around it is time-consuming. Flying is the fastest way to get from one city to another, but it’s also very expensive and inefficient. Car rental is the second-best option, but only if you’re comfortable with long drives. 

Traveling by bus is an option for getting from one big city to another. It’s slower than driving but not by much, plus it’s the more affordable option. But buses can’t take you to attractions off the beaten path, and car rental offers the most freedom and convenience for exploring Texas. 

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least a week in Texas, especially if you want to explore several cities in the state. Keep in mind that it’s often a 4-5 hour drive between two cities, and that’s if there’s no traffic and you can avoid rush hour entirely. If you’re getting around by bus, the travel times are even longer. 

San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and Austin are the top cities to visit in the state, and I reckon you need at least two days for each one. So, if you want to do an epic tour of Texas and hit all the best landmarks and cities, plan a trip of 10-15 days. But if you want to stay in one place for a while and maybe do a couple of day trips from there, the trip is manageable in five days. 

Where To Stay In Texas

Texas is a big state and the best way to discover it is to stay in multiple cities. Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio are all excellent places to stay in Texas. San Padre Island is the best destination for travelers who are more interested in the beach vacations the Lone Star State offers, while Texas’ national and state parks feature some of the best camping grounds. 

Whether you want to pinch pennies or live it up, it should be pretty easy to find accommodation in your price range in any one of these Texas cities. Here are some of the best hotels in Texas for all budgets: 

• Magnolia Hotel Downtown Dallas is an affordable four-star hotel in the heart of Dallas. 
• Hyatt Place Austin Downtown is a modern mid-range hotel in central Austin. 
• La Colombe d’Or Hotel is a fabulous luxury hotel located centrally in Houston. 

Ideally, you won’t spend all your time in Texas in just one place, so I included hotels in the three best cities in the state. It doesn’t matter quite as much where you begin or end the trip; as long as you cover all the landmarks and sights that interest you most, you’ll have the time of your life in Texas! 

Plan your Next Trip to Texas With these Resources

• 20 Best Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas
• 26 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas You Don’t Want To Miss
• 25 Best Things to Do in Houston, Texas
• 29 Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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13 Best Places to Visit in Texas, According to a Local

Whether you want buzzing city life or solitude in a small town, you can find it in Texas.

Jacob Bryant/EyeEm/Getty Images

As the largest contiguous state in the U.S., Texas is home to vast desert grasslands, dense forests, miles of beaches , rolling plains, and rugged hills. With more than 268,000 square miles making up the Lone Star State, there’s lots of room to roam and plenty of places to explore. 

Whether you want a bustling city or quiet place to explore, you can find it in Texas, from the Panhandle Plains and Hill Country to the Gulf Coast and Piney Woods. Here, the best places to visit in Texas, according to a local.

Mariah Tyler ©

About 30 minutes west of the hustle and bustle that is Dallas lies Fort Worth, where world-class art museums and an excellent food and drink scene collide. And while Fort Worth is growing — it’s the 12th largest city in the U.S. — it still feels relaxed and approachable. Perhaps it’s that friendly Western hospitality and a range of dining options and activities that make it a win.

In the Cultural District , visitors can check out five museums dedicated to art, science, and local history. Of course, the Stockyards is a Fort Worth rite of passage, where the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive and year-round rodeo occurs. Downtown Fort Worth is another gem, with block after block of restaurants, Broadway shows at Bass Performance Hall , and nightlife in the form of pubs, bars, live music, comedy shows, and more. The Fort Worth Zoo remains one of the best in the U.S. today, too.

Mariah Tyler

Austin , the state's quirky capital, is home to nearly one million people. Locals love to take advantage of the city’s numerous parks and public spaces, including Zilker Metropolitan Park , a 351-acre oasis with gorgeous views of the skyline and plenty of four-legged friends roaming about, as well as Barton Springs Pool , a three-acre, spring-fed pool used year-round for swimming. There are also lots of hiking trails throughout the city, including the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake, the Barton Creek Greenbelt , and McKinney Falls State Park .

Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, too, and there are numerous places to catch a show , including the annual Austin City Limits festival. One of the best perks, though, is the city's location near Hill Country, which provides easy access to charming small towns , rivers for floating, and more.

San Antonio

Under two hours south of Austin lies San Antonio, another cultural treasure Texans love to visit and call home. Known for the Alamo, this city is home to four other beautiful missions, all part of the UNESCO-designated San Antonio Missions National Historical Park . Of course, there’s also the beautiful River Walk , full of shopping and dining, and Market Square , where more than 100 vendors sell Mexican wares and cuisine.

San Antonio also brims with incredible museums such as the Witte Museum , McNay Art Museum , Briscoe Western Art Museum , and San Antonio Museum of Art .

Located at the southern edge of Texas Hill Country, San Antonio is also full of outdoor pursuits, including Government Canyon State Natural Area , where 12,00 acres and more than 40 miles of trails offer plenty of room to roam. There’s also river access all around for fishing, swimming, and floating.

If you’re looking to explore the vast Big Bend area, Terlingua is a great base camp. Located in between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park , this former mining town became one of the country’s largest producers of quicksilver in the early 20th century, later transforming into a ghost town when the mine closed.

Terlingua is also home to two renowned chili cook-offs, which bring in thousands each fall. Hike through the state or national park, or rent a canoe and float down the Rio Grande along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Back in town, the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon is a must for dinner and live music, as it was known as the theater in town for miners back in its heyday. The Terlingua Cemetery, home to a few graves with quirky embellishments, is one of the most photographed in Texas.

There’s also lots of great art throughout town. Stop by a local gallery for mosaics, paintings, photography, and more, and don’t miss the Terlingua Trading Company for souvenirs, art, and gifts. Foodies will enjoy Taqueria El Milagro for its tacos and Tex-Mex plates, while Long Draw Pizza serves up delicious specialty pizzas like the Terlingua Spur (fajita chicken, onions, jalapeno, cheddar, mozzarella, barbecue sauce, and marinara).

Mustang Island

Courtesy of Visit Port Aransas

Named for the wild horses that inhabited the area for hundreds of years, Mustang Island, just south of Port Aransas, is a barrier island that’s ideal for those seeking a beach escape without the crowds found along the Texas coast. Visit Mustang Island State Park , where more than five miles of coastline offer swimming, fishing, kayaking, and beachcombing. The island is also a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, as 400-plus bird species have been identified here, plus sea turtles can be spotted nesting. Adventure lovers can parasail or try their hand at surfing, or cast a line during an offshore fishing excursion.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

In West Texas near the New Mexico state line, you’ll find Guadalupe Mountains National Park , which includes the four highest peaks in Texas. The park has more than 80 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks to all-day endeavors that require a bit of planning. Trek to the "Top of Texas" (a.k.a. Guadalupe Peak), an 8.4-mile hike with views from the highest point in the state, at 8,751 feet. Here, surrounded by vast terrain, you can see the surrounding mountains and a seemingly never-ending expanse of the desert. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is part of the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef complex, Capitan Reef, and other activities include backpacking, camping, horseback riding, and birding.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Craig Sears/Getty Images

Texas is home to the second largest canyon in the U.S., and it’s found at Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the Panhandle. Here, the canyon sprawls for roughly 120 miles and is about 20 miles wide and up to 800 feet deep in some places. As you hike, you’ll notice four geologic layers that make up the canyon, which began forming a million years ago.

Aside from 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, the park has 1,500 acres dedicated to horseback riding. Catch the " Texas Outdoor Musical " show in the summertime at the amphitheater, and learn about the struggles and successes of early Texas settlers. Campsites and cabins are available, but new to the park are luxury glamping sites with covered porches with swings, air conditioning, fire pits, bicycles, and rustic decor.

Hal Bergman/Getty Images

This iconic Texas town is a trek, but it’s worth the drive. Marfa is an artistic oasis, full of galleries, boutiques, museums, and stand-alone art pieces. The Chinati Foundation is a contemporary art museum with pieces inspired from the surrounding landscape; guided tours are available. There’s also Ballroom Marfa , another contemporary art museum that strives to give artists and musicians a platform in the Big Bend area.

Toast to a great day at Marfa Spirit Co. , where rum, sotol, vodka, and more are blended into signature cocktails, and grab a tasty burrito from Marfa Burrito. For a cool souvenir, stop by Marfa Book Co. , and when it comes to where to stay, there are loads of quirky-cool options such as Chinati Hot Springs cabins , El Cosmico , Hotel Paisano , and Hotel Saint George .

While here, don't miss the Marfa Lights, a mysterious dancing light phenomenon that occurs southeast of town. The lights appear in a few different colors, and the cause is still argued today.

Fredericksburg

Dennis Garrels/Getty Images

Located in Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a well-known destination for local and out-of-state tourists looking for an escape. Home to about 11,000 people, this small city is situated in the middle of Texas wine country , with more than 50 wineries, tasting rooms, and vineyards in the county.

There are also lots of shuttle options in Fredericksburg that take visitors to wineries outside of town, plus breweries and distilleries dotting the area. Nature lovers have an array of options as well, including rock climbing and hiking at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area , plus cycling and horseback riding through parks and backroads across town. For shopping and dining, head to Main Street, where you’ll find more than 150 boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and museums.

New Braunfels

Roberto Galan/Getty Images

Between Austin and San Antonio lies New Braunfels, a charming Hill Country city founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. In the summer months, visitors flock here to float the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, both located in New Braunfels and a favorite way to spend a long, hot day.

Back in town, Texas-German architecture lines the downtown streets, where you’ll find boutique shopping, a developing bar and restaurant scene, museums, and art galleries. New Braunfels is also home to historic Gruene and Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas and a beloved live music venue today.

Courtesy of Visit Georgetown

A suburb of Austin, Georgetown has plenty of parks and outdoor space for adventure, including Lake Georgetown, where you can picnic, swim, and hike around the water on a 26.5-mile trail. In the downtown square, you’ll find everything from fine jewelry and boutique clothing to guitars and gourmet foods. Each year, Georgetown hosts the annual Red Poppy Festival , plus a summer concert series, and the Georgetown Wine and Music Festival. Whether you want room to roam or a great place for restaurants and shopping, this city delivers.

Getty Images

Denton, north of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, is a college town with two universities: the University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University. The city has a fun, quirky vibe, but still holds onto a small-town feel with a cute downtown square and pocket after pocket of charming neighborhoods. The creative scene here is huge, too, from a thriving liberal arts program at UNT to community organizations showcasing and promoting local artwork and performing arts. Surrounding the 19th-century courthouse are lots of local restaurants and shops to explore, including a bookstore, an ice cream parlor, and bars serving cocktails. In the fall, catch a UNT football game at Apogee Stadium and cheer on the Mean Green in a sea of green and white.

Rockport-Fulton

Lupe Chacon/Getty Images

If a beach town is what you’re after, then Rockport-Fulton might be the ticket. It’s quieter and not as touristy as Galveston or South Padre Island, but it still offers plenty of fun in the form of outdoor exploration, coastal dining, and history. Rockport-Fulton has a booming arts scene, and the Rockport Center for the Arts holds classes and workshops and has rotating exhibitions.

Birders love the area, too, as hundreds of species migrate through the area or call it home. Adventurers love to explore the coastline via kayak or boat, or head to one of the piers for fishing. Geocaching, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, and windsurfing are popular pastimes as well. More than 30 locally owned restaurants provide an array of dining options, and the sunsets here are some of the best along the Gulf Coast.

Related Articles

25 Best Things To Do In Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Wondering what activities and attractions you can’t miss in the Lone Star State? Our guide to the best things to do in Texas is just what you need!

Nowhere can we replicate Texas’s genuine passion and zeal with its big and bold friendliness and distinctive cowboy culture.

The Lone Star State is full of world-class Texas activities and popular tourist attractions featuring world-class theme parks, renowned botanical gardens, nationally acclaimed museums, and impactful historical sites, like the Alamo, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.

You can check out the big cities of Dallas , Austin , and Houston , or head out to remote national parks and historic locations around the state.

We’ve carefully crafted this list of the best things to do in Texas so you can get started adventuring the culture, history, and impact of the Southwest. 

Table of Contents

1) Adventure The 15th Largest National Park In The U.S. At Big Bend National Park

2) see where astronauts train at the space center houston, 3) bask in the pristine landscape of padre island national seashore, 4) tour the largest capitol building at the texas state capitol, 5) pay your respects at the national museum of the pacific war, 6) witness the discovery of ice age fossils at the waco mammoth national monument, 7) explore dallas, 8) check out the authentic mummies at the houston museum of natural science, 9) prepare for an abundance of fun at moody gardens and aquarium, 10) remember the alamo, 11) experience the american west at the fort worth stockyards national historic district, 12) learn about the impact of the breed at the american quarter horse hall of fame & museum, 13) hike the serene landscapes of guadalupe mountains national park, 14) visit the texas state aquarium, 15) stroll through world-class gardens at the fort worth botanic garden, 16) wander along the san antonio river walk, 17) see the world’s tallest cowboy at the texas state fair, 18) step back in history at the fort davis national historic site, 19) hike to the breathtaking hamilton pool preserve, 20) trek to the tallest waterfall in texas at colorado bend state park, 21) watch the bat show at richards congress avenue bridge, 22) visit the sixth floor museum at dealey plaza, 23) tour the natural bridge caverns, 24) test your courage with unreal views at the reunion tower, 25) visit the #1 zoo in the nation, the fort worth zoo, the 25 best things to do in texas.

If you’re searching for what to do in Texas, we have compiled a list of all the best attractions, natural sights, fun activities, and more.

Featuring the most popular tourist attractions, like the San Antonio River Walk or the tallest waterfall in Texas at Colorado Bend State Park, traveling to Texas is guaranteed to be rewarding! 

Home to a majority of the Chihuahuan Desert and the whole Chisos mountain range, Big Bend National Park is a favored natural attraction in west Texas. In addition, it holds other notable features, such as the Langford Hot Springs and the Santa Elena Canyon, which the Rio Grande River carved.

Over 150 miles worth of hiking trails is available in Big Bend National Park for all levels and ages. The trails traverse through scenic landscapes of mountainous deserts, limestone outcrops, and riverside terrain.

Other popular activities to take part in at Big Bend National Park include wildlife watching, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, river rafting, and biking. 

A Smithsonian Affiliate museum, the NASA Space Center Houston, or Space Center Houston, is a science museum and official visitor center for NASA Johnson Space Center. 

Nearly 1.25 million visitors walk through the doors of Space Center Houston to explore and learn more about the impact of science, engineering, and technology.

In addition, the center’s renowned education programming guides all ages through space exploration, inspiring curiosity and appeal in math and science. 

More than 400 space artifacts and exhibits to adventure at Space Center Houston, with engaging experiences and significant features like the world’s most extensive collection of moon rocks and lunar samples welcome for viewing. 

This is easily one of the most fun things to do in Houston !

• Address: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058, United States
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Near Corpus Christi, Padre Island National Seashore is the world’s largest undeveloped barrier island, dividing the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre.

It connects two islands, North Padre Island and South Padre Island. North Padre Island contains the Padre Island National Seashore, while South Padre Island is a popular resort destination. 

The Kemp’s ridley sea turtles use the Padre Island National Seashore’s 66 miles of coastline as a secure nesting ground.

People come to Padre Island National Seashore for camping, bird watching, and kayaking, surrounded by untainted landscape features of sandy beachlines, impressive sand dunes, and prairies. 

You may also be interested in our guide to planning an epic Texas road trip !

The Texas State Capitol in downtown Austin , Texas, is a prevalent historical landmark that acts as the capital and seat of the government for Texas.

As the largest capitol building in the United States, larger than the U.S. Capitol Building, the Texas State Capitol remains an impressive landmark featuring stunning architecture, giant brass door hinges, sparkling chandeliers, and intricate handrails.

The grounds of the Texas State Capitol rest on nearly 22 acres, homing 22 monuments, pristine lawns, and historic buildings to adventure. 

Tours of the Texas State Capitol are free. Visitors are taken throughout the building to learn about the structure’s history and the Texas government. 

• Address: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, United States
• Hours: 7 am – 8 pm weekdays, 9 am – 8 pm weekends

Check out our 3 Days in Austin Itinerary for more inspiration!

The National Museum of the Pacific War honors all who served in the Pacific War in World War II.

Recognized as the fifth-best history museum in the nation by USA Today readers, the museum has gone through extensive renovations and upgrades to be established as a premier museum.

The impactful interactive exhibits showcase different parts of history and stories of the Pacific War.

For example, the George Bush Gallery of the National Museum of the Pacific War presents artifacts, memorabilia, and educational information from the war.

One interactive exhibit includes animatronic WWII soldiers surrounded by bombarding grenades and scurrying rats as a step into the venture of the Pacific War. 

• Address: 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm, Closed Tuesdays

Read Next: Don’t miss out on our list of the best places to visit in Texas !

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a paleontological site and museum where 24+ Columbian mammoths and other impressive fossils were discovered. 

The site where the fossil specimens were found represents an impact in history. It is the nation’s first and only recorded findings of a nursery herd of Columbian mammoths from the Ice Age.

The completed fossils stand at 14 feet, weighing in at 20,000 pounds. A camel and tooth from a saber tooth cat were also found on the grounds. 

Take your adventure in Waco to the next level by booking a horseback riding tour with a cowboy guide !

• Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States

One of the best things to do in Texas is to spend some time in the grand city of Dallas ! Your first stop should be the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden on the shores of White Rock Lake.

Walking through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden presents an impactful experience filled with various points of interest, stunning displays, unique gardens, and more! 

Next head to the Dallas Museum of Art. As one of the largest art museums in America, the Dallas Museum of Art is home to over 25,000 unique works of art from a wide range of different time periods and cultures.

Other top attractions to include in your sightseeing of the city include the Dallas World Aquarium, the Dallas County Administration Building, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and more.

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Dallas here!

The Houston Museum of Natural Science homes numerous attractions like the Cockrell Butterfly Center and the Burke Baker Planetarium. 

The museum is renowned for its exhibits that explore science, astronomy, chemistry, history, paleontology, and other exciting topics.

Dedicated to sharing the intrigue of natural science with all ages, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the most famous museums in the United States. 

Explore the numerous exhibits, including the Hall of Ancient Egypt, which houses mummies like Ankh Hap, one of Ramses II’s tax collectors.

Also, check out the Cockrell Butterfly Center, full of vibrantly colored and diverse-shaped butterflies fluttering around various habitats. The options are endless at the Houston Museum of Natural Science! 

• Address: 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States

For more ideas in the area, check out our 3 Days in Houston itinerary !

Moody Gardens and Aquarium, located in Galveston, Texas, is a favorite tourist destination with an aquarium, hotel, theme park, convention center, and golf course. 

All ages in the aquarium are welcome to explore the impressive exhibits, like the penguin exhibits, featuring four species of penguin” Macaroni, Gentoo, Chinstrap, and King.

See the vibrant and exotic jellyfish gently floating in the water, then visit the sea lions and seals as they toss their flippers and nose dive through the water. 

After scouring the aquarium, check out the rainforest zoo, zip line, ropes course, wave pool, lazy river, and more available for loads of fun during your visit.

And once you’re done, witness the revelry of Galveston on this adults-only walking tour that dives into the history of Galveston’s past while stopping at significant points of interest like Moody Mansion and the 1892 Bishop’s Palace. 

• Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States
• Hours: 10 am – 4 pm

Read Next: Check out this post to find out more great things to do in Galveston !

One of the most well-known Texas attractions, the Alamo is a historic Spanish mission and fort established in the 18th century. 

The Alamo was initially a Spanish mission, built in 1718, the first to be established in Texas. It was originally known as San Antonio de Valero and used by the Spanish to spread the Roman Catholic faith to the native peoples of the region.

However, ownership was passed to the Mexicans in 1821 and was used as a garrison for the Mexican forces until 1835, when it was surrendered to the Texian Army.

During the Battle of the Alamo of the Texas Revolution, the Texicans were severely outnumbered, losing the battle to surrender the Alamo to the Mexican military. Once the Texas Revolution ended, the Texians retook the Alamo.

It was used again in 1876 by the U.S. Army before eventually being transformed into a historical tourist attraction, shrine, and memorial for those who died in the Battle of the Alamo. 

• Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
• Hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm

After seeing the Alamo, find more things to do with our 3 Days in San Antonio itinerary !

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is a historic district. In the district are 98 acres listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

The Fort Worth Stockyards was once full of outlaws and cowboys, and visiting this historic spot is one of the best things to do in Texas.

Now, the district welcomes visitors from across the globe to experience the American West with popular attractions like the Fort Worth Herd, the only twice-daily cattle drive in the world, and the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, where cowboys face off against bulls and broncs every week. 

The Fort Worth Stockyards offers favored Texas activities, whether shopping for authentic cowboy boots and hats, experiencing country music in the Southwest or dining like a Texan. 

Go on a history tour and pub crawl to learn more about the history and culture of the area while visiting saloons and drinking some local brew!

Founded in Amarillo, Texas, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum preserves the history of the American Quarter Horse, the cowboy’s horse. 

The American Quarter Horse is one of the world’s most popular horse breeds, having played a crucial role in American history. The breed is renowned for its unreal intuition and talent for working with cows, termed “steel dust” by cowboys in the 19th century for their lightning speed that lasted a quarter mile.

The distance of a quarter mile, and where the breed got its name, refers to the most popular run in Colonial racing which frequently occurred in villages. And out of anywhere in the world, Texas tops all others by holding the largest population of Quarter Horses. 

The museum’s exceptional exhibits offer a chance for visitors to learn about the impact of the American Quarter Horse on shaping the United States. 

• Address: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104, United States
• Hours: 10 am – 4 pm, Closed Sundays and Mondays

Read Next: Check out this post to find out more great things to do in Amarillo!

Well-known for its shocking white Salt Basin Dunes, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park homes Texas’s highest summit, Guadalupe Peak. 

Full of captivating natural beauty, the park holds the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef and impactful history.

Eventually, the Mescalero Apaches moved to the local area for its thriving wildlife. In addition, historical artifacts have been discovered on the park’s grounds and preserved at a museum at Frijole Ranch. 

Hikers and campers love traveling to Guadalupe Mountains National Park to explore its luscious forests, serene landscapes, and wildlife-watching opportunities. 

The largest aquarium in the state, the Texas State Aquarium, is one of the top ten aquariums in the United States to witness the unique world of marine life. 

Explore the Western Caribbean Sea and Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula at the Texas State Aquarium for an extraordinary interactive experience.

Watch the otters play, the sharks prowl, and the American bald eagle’s majestic appeal earned it the title of the national symbol for the United States.

Located in Corpus Christi, this is one of the top things to do in Texas for families with kids!

• Address : 2710 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402, United States
• Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed Mondays

The oldest botanic garden in the state, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden , was built in 1934 in the cultural district of Fort Worth. 

Fort Worth Botanic Garden houses the world-renowned Japanese Garden, featuring mastered stonework, koi ponds, the Moon Bridge, the Moon Viewing Deck, and roaring waterfalls. In addition, there are other noteworthy themed gardens, including the Rose Gardens.

The Rainforest Conservatory is also a glass-enclosed conservatory filled with plant life sourced from the world’s rainforests, like the Traveler’s Tree, grown native to Madagascar. 

• Address: 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States
• Hours: 8 am – 4 pm

Read Next: Check out this post to find out more great things to do in Fort Worth!

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the highlights of the charming southern city of San Antonio, TX.

The River Walk is often considered the heart of the city, and no visit here would be complete without a long, leisurely stroll along the pedestrian riverside path.

Lined with shops, cafes, and local restaurants, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a beautiful place filled with attractions, twinkling lights, and various parades and festivals depending on the time of year.

Make sure you stop off at the San Antonio Botanical Garden and the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden, which is a magical destination brimming with natural life and history. 

Hop on a riverboat cruise that sails along the San Antonio River Walk, featuring the educational narration of the city’s top historical and cultural sites. 

The Texas State Fair, or State Fair of Texas, is annually run in the historic Fair Park in Dallas, Texas. 

The longest-running fair in the nation and one of the largest, the State Fair of Texas has continued operating since 1886, except for lull periods during World War I, World War II, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The State Fair of Texas starts near the end of September and continues for about a month. 

Fair Park became a designated National Historic Landmark, serving as the State Fair of Texas’s home for over a century. The fair’s iconic feature, Big Tex, is the world’s tallest cowboy at 52 feet tall, wearing size 70 boots and a 75-gallon hat. 

• Address: Fair Park; 1300 Robert B Cullum Boulevard; Dallas, TX 75210

Check out our Ultimate 3 Days in Dallas Itinerary for more ideas!

Fort Davis National Historic Site is an important historical site, representing an example of an Indian Wars’ frontier military post in the Southwest that played a crucial role in the history of the Southwest.

Named after the Secretary of War, Jefferson Davis, the fort was used from 1854-1891 to protect emigrants, freight wagons, and mail coaches from attack as they traversed the Trans-Pecos and Chihuahua Trail.

Currently, over 100 ruins and 24 buildings are preserved at the Fort Davis National Historic Site, some of which have been refurbished so visitors touring the grounds can picture what it was like to live during this time in history. 

• Address: 1504 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734, United States
• Hours: 8 am – 5 pm

Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs, Texas, is a unique nature preserve home to the Golden-cheeked Warbler and various other birds, making it a hot spot for birdwatching. 

A 50-foot waterfall falls over the impressive box canyon, sourced from the Hamilton Creek water that drifts over the limestone cliff sides.

Part of the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, the Hamilton Pool Preserve hosts rare plant species, like the chatterbox orchid, and other endangered species. 

The historical site was once home to the Tonkawa and Lipan Apaches before the 1800s. Then, the property was bought by Morgan C. Hamilton, the brother of Andrew Jake Hamilton, the 10th governor of Texas, who frequently visited the breathtaking grotto.

Travis County bought the Hamilton Pool Preserve in 1985 to preserve and restore the pool, making it more attractive for visitors to come hike, bird watch, and explore!

A haven of prospering wilderness, Colorado Bend State Park offers 35 miles of hiking and biking trails. 

There are plenty of fun things to do in this national park. Gorman Falls is one of the most popular points of interest.

The 70-foot waterfall is the tallest in Texas, rushing over limestone formations. The rewarding hike to the falls is three miles roundtrip with Gorman Falls at the end.

Visitors journey to Colorado Bend State Park to go on cave tours, take a dip in Spicewood Springs, witness the nature-made beauty of Gorman Falls, fish, kayak, camp, and more!

Arcing over Lady Bird Lake in Austin , Texas, Congress Avenue Bridge is famous for bat-watching at sunset. 

This top Austin attraction is a must-see in the city! The Mexican Free-Tailed Bats made the Congress Avenue Bridge a favored bat cave.

The bats are welcomed by Austin residents for their work in handling bug mitigation in the city, as well as offering the spectacular show every night where hundreds and thousands of bats exit from under the bridge to fly out over Lady Bird Lake to find their nightly meal. 

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Austin, Texas

Easily one of the top tourist attractions in all of Texas, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a prominent museum in Dallas.

This fascinating museum tells the story of President John F. Kennedy and his tragic assassination. The main exhibit is called John F. Kennedy and the Memory of a Nation , and here you can learn all about the historic man and how he died.

The Sixth Floor Museum is located inside the former Texas School Book Depository building, and it takes about 90 minutes to pass through the entire museum.

Check out the exhibits, events, visitor center and gift shop, all of which are dedicated to this important piece of US history.

The museum can get extremely busy, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance !

• Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States
• Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

The Natural Bridge Caverns is a collection of underground caves, bridges, and passageways, covered in stalactites and stalagmites.

Named after the 60-foot limestone bridge that formed completely naturally near the entrance, Natural Bridge Caverns is a natural phenomenon that has been converted into a top tourist attraction.

Follow the underground walkways through massive caves, and take on the zip lines and ropes courses if you’re feeling adventurous.

This fascinating natural attraction can be found just outside San Antonio, TX.

• Address : 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States
• Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Monday & Tuesday, 10 am – 4 pm Wednesday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm Saturday & Sunday

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in San Antonio, Texas here!

Located in downtown Dallas, the Reunion Tower is an impressive landmark and observation tower stretching 561 feet in the sky. 

Offering up panoramic views of Dallas, this observation tower is not for the faint of heart or anyone who fears heights. Standing at an imposing 561 feet, the observation deck, termed the GeO-Deck, rests at 470 feet above street level to avail spectacular city scenery from an indoor and outdoor point of view.

You don’t want to miss these views that were voted the best in the world in 2014!

• Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207, United States
• Hours : 12 pm – 7:30 pm Monday – Thursday, 1 pm – 8:30 pm Friday – Sunday

Founded in 1909, the Fort Worth Zoo protects more than 7,000 exotic and native animals in specially designed indoor and outdoor habitats. 

Nationally acclaimed and voted the #1 zoo in the nation by USA Today, all ages are welcome to explore world-class exhibits and thousands of unique species at the Fort Worth Zoo.

Visitors can peer at the four great ape species in the World of Primates, study endangered reptiles and amphibians at the Museum of Living Art, and stop by the petting zoo to get up close and personal. 

• Address: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110, United States
• Hours : 10 am – 4 pm

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Loved this post! I’m planning a road trip across Texas this summer and this guide has been super helpful in planning our itinerary. The 10 best BBQ joints and 5 amazing national parks in Texas highlights are a must-see for any Texas newbie like me!

Thanks so much. Glad you found it helpful

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17 Terrific Reasons to Visit Texas

Ask any Texan, and they will have no trouble coming up with plenty of reasons that you should visit Texas!

Texans are incredibly proud of their state, from its incredible food to its interesting history to its varied nature, and once you visit, you’re bound to see why.

While Texas might not shine on the national tourism scene quite as brightly as heavy-hitters like California and Florida, there are excellent reasons to visit the Lone Star State.

Considering planning a vacation here–or just passing through and wondering if it’s worth taking your time to enjoy Texas?

Here are just a few of the best reasons to visit Texas!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Texas’ food is some of the best in the USA.

It’s impossible to write a post about the best reasons to visit Texas without waxing poetic about the food.

From TexMex to barbecue to burgers and beyond, Texas’ food is delicious enough that it alone would be worth making the journey to the Lone Star State.

In addition to all the classic things to eat in Texas , from brisket to pecan pie, Texas’ largest cities (especially Houston!) all have celebrated international food scenes.

Interesting sights are lurking in the small towns.

The best small towns in Texas may just be ones that you’ve never heard of before!

From the German heritage of Fredericksburg to the charm of Wimberley to the homages paid to Alsatian culture in Castroville , Texas’ small towns are as varied as they are distinct.

No matter what region of Texas you’re in, you’re bound to be close (by Texas standards, anyway) to one of the best small towns in Texas !

Texas is home to 16 destinations managed by the National Park Service.

If you’re not from around here, you may not have heard of Texas’ two national parks, Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountain National Park –but they’re both absolutely stunning.

In addition to those two parks, Texas is also home to a slew of other historic landmarks and national protected areas that are managed by NPS, including the Padre Island National Seashore, Big Thicket National Preserve, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

You can a full guide to the national parks in Texas here !

… including a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

San Antonio’s collection of Spanish missions is not only a national historic park, they make up the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas!

Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission Espada, and Mission San Juan Capistrano are all absolutely worth a visit, and on a beautiful day, you can even bike between them.

The Alamo is also part of the UNESCO site, though not the national historical park.

There are so many beautiful swimming holes in the Lone Star State.

Hamilton Pool, located just outside of Austin in Dripping Springs , is one of the best-known outside the Lone Star State, but the Texas Hill Country, in particular, is positively covered in crisp, spring-fed waters.

Combine the beautiful water with central Texas’ notorious heat, and these swimming holes practically beg visitors to jump in.

Other popular spots include Barton Springs in Austin, Jacob’s Well and the Blue Hole in Wimberley , the frigid waters of the aptly-named Frio River in Garner State Park, and Krause Springs in Spicewood .

That being said, there’s truly no limit to the number of great places to swim (or float the river ) in Texas.

Springtime wildflowers are one of the best reasons to visit Texas.

Texas’ state flower is the bluebonnet, and from roughly late March to mid-April, the state absolutely explodes with color.

These beautiful blooms, along with other local wildflowers like Indian paintbrushes, can be spotted everywhere from hiking trails to the sides of highways.

F inding the best patches is a classic pastime for Texans (especially those on the hunt for the perfect background for family portraits).

Texas’ cities all have their own unique culture.

Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio all rank among the top ten largest cities in the country by population!

Austin (#11) and Fort Worth (#13) just barely fail to make the cut.

Despite their size, Texas’ cities are (unfortunately) often overlooked in the national tourism scene.

But whether you want to remember the Alamo in San Antonio, sample one of the best international food scenes in the US in Houston, sample cowboy culture in Fort Worth, or enjoy the music scene in Austin, there’s a city in Texas for you.

The Houston Space Center is a world-class museum.

“Houston, we have a problem.”

One of the most famous sentences from the 20th century was relayed to a team located in none other than Houston, Texas.

The current NASA Space Center museum is one of the absolute best ways to explore the history of NASA in the USA, and one of the top things to do in Texas !

The most famous road trip in America passes through Texas.

Despite being the second-largest state in the USA, Texas is home to the second shortest portion of Route 66 of any state that the route passes through–but it makes the most of its 170-mile stretch.

From ghost towns to Art Deco architecture to some of the most famous roadside attractions along Route 66 (hello, Cadillac Ranch !), exploring Texas’ Route 66 attractions is well worth a drive.

There’s no better place to stay on a dude ranch.

Bandera, the self-declared Cowboy Capital of the World, is one of the best places to try out life on a dude ranch in Texas.

From long horseback rides to home cooking to relaxing around a campfire at night, there’s something incredibly special about spending a few days at a Texas dude ranch.

You can see enormous bat colonies!

From March to October each year, Texas is home to tens of millions of bats!

At dusk, they emerge from the caves and bridges they call home to hunt, and the spectacle is considered one of the best things to see in Texas.

While the colony that lives under the South Congress Bridge in Austin is among the most famous, there are lots of places to see bats in Texas !

The diversity of landscapes in Texas is overwhelming.

Alligator-infested lakes lined with cypress trees, sprawling sand dunes, craggy mountains, crystal-clear rivers, turquoise lakes, the second-largest canyon in the USA, and sandy beaches: what do all of these landscapes have in common?

They’re all in Texas.

While non-Texans may tend to picture dusty deserts when imagining the Lone Star State, the reality is that the desert only makes a minor portion of the second-biggest state in the USA.

And, for that matter, most Texans live hours from the desert!

Wine country is an underrated delight and an excellent reason to visit Texas.

Wine is exploding in popularity in Texas, and you can find vineyards all across the state these days!

But for the best of the best, head to the Texas Hill Country, where there are so many wineries to choose from that a section of Highway 290 has even been nicknamed “Wine Road 290”.

Texas waterfalls are pretty magnificent.

From 70-foot Gorman Falls in Colorado Bend State Park to the increasingly famous Hamilton Pool, the best waterfalls in Texas are as stunning as they are unexpected.

… and so are the caves.

Texas is known for its enormous quantity of limestone, which is obvious in everything from local architecture to the rocky trails and rivers that are so ubiquitous in the state.

A lesser-known result of the plethora of limestone, though, is the enormous number of absolutely stunning limestone caves and caverns in Texas .

You can tour many of the most beautiful Texas caves on visits ranging from simple walks through the rooms to full-on spelunking tours!

Texas’ 80 state parks are perfect for outdoors lovers.

The panhandle has Palo Duro Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the USA. 

East Texas has Caddo Lake State Park with cypress trees galore.

The southwest has Big Bend Ranch State Park with desert hiking and the chance to swim in the Rio Grande.

South Texas has Galveston Island State Park, home to some of the best Gulf Coast beaches in Texas.

In other words, there is no shortage of diversity that you can find in Texas’ many, many state parks!

You can’t beat the winter weather when visiting Texas.

Sure, Texas’ summers are notoriously brutal–don’t plan a July trip to Houston unless you plan to sweat literally the entire time.

But in exchange, we’re treated to mild and beautiful winters, with plenty of warm, sunny days to break up the occasional cold fronts.

If you’re looking for a sunny escape from cold and damp weather further north, consider the winter weather one of the best reasons to visit Texas (other than during those rare ice storms, that is).

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 25 Best Things to Do in Texas

25 Best Things to Do in Texas

Texas is a state spanning an area larger than many countries. It covers an area larger than the UK, Germany, Netherlands and Belgium combined, has 367 miles of coastline and three mountain ranges top more than 7000ft.

The Lone Star State spans from big city lights to desert canyons and allows visitors to experience endless fiestas in San Antonio or hike along the Rio Grande’s “Big Bend”.

There is a lot to learn about this state’s past and a lot to experience in the present.

This list of things to do in Texas could consist solely of the top 25 walking routes, or museums or even the top 25 things to eat but, with great difficulty, I have managed to narrow the list down to an even mix of the best culture, history and natural beauty to be found in the giant state of Texas. Here’s the best things to do in Texas :

1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

The Sixth Floor Museum is located on the sixth floor of the Dallas County Administration Building in downtown Dallas.

It is home to many exhibits telling the tale of John F Kennedy’s life, legacy and assassination.

Visitors to the museum are able to examine artifacts, photographs and eye witness accounts.

The museums collection is ever expanding and currently holds around 45,000 items.

2. Six Flags Over Texas

Situated on 213 acres of land in Arlington Texas, this theme park is the state’s largest.

It is also one of Texas’ most popular attractions and is home to the infamous Batman The Ride.

There is something for all ages at the theme park including live shows paying homage to the country music of Texas.

Throughout the year the park also hosts a number of events which are well worth looking out for.

3. The Alamo

Situated on the outskirts of San Antonio, The Alamo is one of the most important historic buildings in the USA.

It was built by the Franciscans in 1744 and by 1834 it had been transformed into a fort.

The Alamo was made famous when a small force barricaded themselves within during the Texan War of Independence in order to defend against a Mexican army of around 3,000 men.

Nowadays, the site is visited by more than two million people annually who come to see the memorial honouring falling Texans and the buildings interior.

4. Houston Space Centre

Another contender for the most popular tourist attraction in Texas is the Houston Space Centre.

The centre is home to Mission Control, where NASA monitors its manned flights into space.

Visitors to the Space Centre are spoiled with a large array of artifacts including objects collected on the Apollo and Mercury missions and even have the chance to dress up as astronaut.

5. San Antonio River Walk

This spectacular walk along the San Antonio River stretches for several miles and takes visitors right through the heart of the city, passing some of the best restaurants, shops and hotels along the way.

The walk is worth undertaking twice, once at night and once in the day.

It is positioned below street level and provides a unique way to see San Antonio for locals and tourists alike.

6. Big Bend National Park

The name of this national park comes from the great bend in the Rio Grande river upon which it is located.

The park occupies altitudes between 1,870 feet and 7,875 feet, making it a varied landscape for wildlife including bald eagles and over 1,000 varieties of plant.

Within the park, visitors are able to trek over 200 miles of hiking trails and visit the parks three great canyons: the Mariscal, Boquillas, and Santa Elena Canyons.

River trips can also be taken through the park and offer a truly memorable perspective of the area’s wild and rugged beauty.

7. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Some of the most spectacular desert terrain can be found within the Guadalupe Mountains National Park located about 100 miles west of El Paso.

Despite its hostile looking scenery, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and various areas of lush woodland and natural hot springs.

The visitor centre in Pine Springs is a great place to pick up information on the park’s hiking and cycling trails.

8. Padre Island National Seashore

The undeveloped barrier island is the longest in the world stretching 70 miles from end-to-end.

Its 130,000 acres of beach and grassland habitats are home to rare animals such as turtles and countless birds. It is a renowned spot for birdwatchers as the island serves as a resting spot for more than 350 species of bird making their annual migrations.

Padre Island is also served by an informative visitor centre, which offers a wealth of information on the wildlife and routes available.

9. The Texas State Capitol

This building, set on 22 acres of land in Austin, was built in 1888 and stands at over 300 feet tall.

Tours of the grounds are available and offer guests information on several monuments, including a memorial to veterans of the Vietnam war, as well as an insight into the history of the building and its functions past and present.

In the evening, thousands of bats take to the skies after leaving their perches under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge.

10. The Fort Worth Stockyards

This area, which was founded in 1866, owes its name to the cattle industry here that was involved in the logistics, administration and transportation of cattle to all corners of the United States.

The facility is one of the last of its kind in the USA and is now home to various attractions such as rodeos, concerts and Wild West shopping.

The stockyards also provide visitors with access to several exhibits on its past and information on the part the yard and cattle played in the country’s history.

11. The Moody Gardens and Aquarium

The Moody Gardens is one of Galveston’s top attractions and is known for its three spectacular glass pyramids.

The Rainforest, Discovery and Aquarium Pyramid all have very different themes to offer guests.

In the Rainforest pyramid, visitors will find a wide assortment of plants and wildlife from the tropics.

The Discovery Pyramid is a great place to get hands on with a selection of science exhibits and finally, the Aquarium Pyramid is home to one of the largest aquariums in Texas and boasts a variety of marine life from the planets oceans.

12. Natural Bridge Caverns

This impressive underground network boasts more than 10,000 different stalactite formations and is the largest accessible cave in the country.

The caverns are just a short drive from the city of San Antonio and offer visitors tours and attractions such as the lantern tour which offers the opportunity to see the cave as the original discoverers did many decades ago.

Back above ground, there are a host of other activities including an open-air maze and treetop canopy challenge.

13. The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum

This drilling rig and museum offers an interesting insight into the important oil industry within the Gulf of Mexico.

It is located just a short walk from Downtown Galveston and provides a unique up close look at the equipment used to drill for oil as well as information on exactly how the substance is obtained.

14. Dallas Museum of Art

Established in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art hosts over 24,000 pieces from all over the globe.

It is one of the largest art galleries in the US and can be found in the Art District of Downtown Dallas. The exhibitions range from period art from Europe to more modern and contemporary works. General admission to the museum is free.

15. Barbecued Food

A visit to Texas would not be complete with sampling some of the state’s famous cuisine.

Barbecue brisket is one of the states most well known foods and involves cooking meat (usually beef) over a wood-fire for a painstakingly long time.

There are many Texan theories on which cut of meat is best and which spice rub brings out the best flavor or how long it should be cooked for but all will agree that the end product is a taste sensation like no other.

16. Hamilton Pool

On a hot day (most days in Texas) there is no better place to cool off than in a natural swimming hole.

The most impressive of these is probably Hamilton Pool, a spectacular naturally shaded pool fed by Hamilton Creek 50 feet above.

The pool is occasionally closed due to adverse weather conditions and don’t forget to bring a towel and sunscreen.

17. Bullock Texas State History Museum

The museum, which is located in Austin, Texas is a division of the Texas State Preservation Board and has a straightforward mission: to tell “the Story of Texas.”

The museum was found by Texan Bob Bullock and hosts a large number of artifacts from the state’s past as well as an interactive timeline of its history.

The museum offers several special events and exhibits throughout the year and also contains a modern Imax cinema.

18. Dallas Zoo

Located in Marsalis Park, 3 miles south of Downtown Dallas, Dallas Zoo is a 106-acre zoo. It was established in 1888 and is the oldest and largest zoo in Texas It is a non-profit attraction and is managed by the Dallas Zoological Society.

The zoo currently houses over 2000 animals and is best known for its children’s area and African themed enclosures, which are viewed from a monorail.

19. Texas State Fair

If you are visiting Texas in Autumn, the state fair which is held for three weeks in Houston, is a must see event.

Set in the 277 acres of Fair Park, more than three million visitors attend this event each year.

Welcoming the visitors since 1952, is the 52 foot mechanical cowboy Big Tex. Entertainment is abundant and varies from puppet shows to military parades.

There is plenty of tasty Texan food on offer as well as live music performances.

Fair Park is also home to nine museums including the African American museum and the Age of Steam museum.

20. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

This national park preserves four out five of the Spanish Frontier missions in San Antonio. In the early 1700s, South Texas was under attack from Apache, disease and drought.

The only chance for survival for the Texans was in the missions, which required newcomers to forswear their traditional life and become Spanish, accepting a new religion and an unseen king in the process.

Nowadays, the missions offer a chance to learn about the past through exhibits and actors telling the story of this period in history.

21. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The Dallas Arboreterum occupies 66 acres of land in East Dallas. It features 66 acres of flower beds, pristine lawns and lush trees.

The gardens here house over 2400 types of azaleas.

The property also showcases the spectacular DeGolyer Mansion, a beautiful Spanish style hacienda commissioned by Texan oil baron Everett DeGolyer in 1940.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden also hosts a number of events and festivals such as live music throughout the year.

22. Nasher Sculpture Centre

The Nasher Sculpture Centre is located just across the street from the Dallas Museum of Art and boasts 55,000 square feet of sculptures.

Developed by Raymond Nasher and his wife Nancy, this collection is considered one of the most extraordinary assortments of modern and contemporary sculptures in the world.

More than 300 significant works of art from artists such as Rodin and Picasso can be found here as well as an additional twenty-five sculptures dotted around the lush 1.4-acre garden surrounding the complex.

23. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

It may be Dallas’ newest museum but the Perot Museum of Nature and Science has a lot to offer visitors. It combines three renowned museums, The Science Place, the Dallas Museum of Natural History and the Dallas Children’s Museum.

Located conveniently near the Arts District between Downtown and Uptown, it opened its doors for the first time on December 1, 2012.

The museum offers a huge variety of exhibits and attractions, including an IMAX theater; a one-acre science park, giant leap frogs and musical instruments; and a Texas-inspired landscape design.

24. Haunted Mayfield Manor

Tucked away in historic shopping district in The Pleasure Pier Galveston, Haunted Mayfield Manor offers 12 terrifying rooms of terror guaranteed to have you screaming.

As well as copious amounts of horror, the manor also gives visitors some history and background into the area.

From time to time paranormal investigations take place in the Mayfield Manor and visitors are offered the unique experience to take part in the supernatural studies.

25. The Pleasure Pier

After devastation caused by Hurricane Ike, Galveston locals redeveloped this pier to resemble a bygone era of boardwalk amusements.

A wristband will get you unlimited rides on the 16 attractions including The Pirate’s Plunge, guaranteed to please on a hot day in Texas, and the 200-foot Texas Star swing.

At night the pier is transformed entirely into a spectacular array of lights and often live music.

25 Best Things to Do in Texas:

• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
• Six Flags Over Texas
• Houston Space Centre
• San Antonio River Walk
• Big Bend National Park
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park
• Padre Island National Seashore
• The Texas State Capitol
• The Fort Worth Stockyards
• The Moody Gardens and Aquarium
• Natural Bridge Caverns
• The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
• Dallas Museum of Art
• Barbecued Food
• Hamilton Pool
• Bullock Texas State History Museum
• Texas State Fair
• San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
• Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
• Nasher Sculpture Centre
• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Haunted Mayfield Manor
• The Pleasure Pier

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16 Best Places to Visit in Texas

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on June 17, 2024

For those that have never visited, Texas can quickly become a caricature of itself thanks to its larger-than-life personality. Yes, everything is bigger in Texas. Yet, what has made it such a fascinating destination is that behind the curtain is a state that is the genuine article.


It was here that the famous cattle drives took place in the second half of the 1800s, solidifying the Lone Star States’ place among ranching lore. Texan border towns share a storied past, offering visitors a taste of history that isn’t watered down, and a local cuisine that stems from home-grown recipes, generations old.


Beyond the past, Texas belies its status as a state of open plains thanks to its unheralded nature. Consequently, many of the best places to visit in Texas are its national parks, caverns and rolling hills home to vineyards. It’s a state full of bigger and bigger surprises, one best seen with your own two eyes.

16. Lubbock

In the plains of northern Texas, Lubbock is a town raised in the Wild West and carries much of its traditions into the 21st century. It’s here that ranches cover land as far as the eye can see. Crops flow in the wind and in town hat shapers and boot makers fit you out in Texas style.


Lubbock is a ranching town that has grown up. It still welcomes a bustling annual rodeo and the must-visit National Ranching Heritage Center, but the arts and live music have become the talk of town.


It was here that Buddy Holly was born. Today, the sound of rock and old-time cowboy blues float out of Blue Light Live and along the local streets. Other highlights include Texas Tech University and the wineries along the High Plains.

15. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Much of Texas is flat, open land with the horizon stretching as far as the eye can see. There are a few regions that test the state’s stereotype. Perhaps the most striking is the Guadalupe Mountains National Park.


Set in the northwest corner of Texas, the Guadalupe Mountains comprise the state’s four highest peaks. Each soars prominently out of the valley to show the world that yes, Texas has mountains too.


These stunning peaks bring a wide range of wildlife to the region. Along with the views, you can hope to spot golden eagles, elk and even black bears along the national parks 80 miles of hiking trails.


The most popular trek is to the state’s highest point, 8751 feet at the summit of Guadalupe Peak along an 8.5 mile journey.

14. Corpus Christi

On the banks of the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is famous for its coastal beauty. In fact, Alonzo de Pineda was so enamored when he discovered this region in the 16th century that he named it after the Feast Day of Corpus Christi.


500 years later, the town’s natural beauty continues to attract travelers from around the country. Beyond the local beaches that are fabulous spots to sunbathe and swim, you won’t be far from the memorable Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore.


Beyond enjoying nature, dive into the local culture with a visit to the Selena Museum and the SS Lexington, an aircraft carrier from the Second World War. Those with kids in tow should pay a visit to the Texas State Aquarium along with a refreshingly fun day at the Schlitterbahn Waterpark.

Once upon a time, Marfa was established as a water stop along a storied railroad. Today, its humble beginnings have taken a back step to the city’s incredible, illuminating and downright mysterious Marfa lights and head-scratching art.


You may have seen it, a picture of the Prada store in the middle of nowhere. Well, you can find it here in Marfa, a town known for its wide-open spaces and its fearlessness towards public art. Beyond the famed Prada exhibit, the Marfa Lights are a collection of glowing orbs that have caused equal parts confusion and wonder for decades.


Lights aren’t the only illumination that attract travelers to Marfa. Boasting one of the darkest skies in the country, thousands of stargazers come here to visit the Rebecca Gale Telescope Park and wonder at the beauty of the Milky Way.

12. Fort Worth

The second half of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Fort Worth commands your attention. There are few things more Texan then cattle ranching, and Fort Worth has been a central figure in this trade for centuries.


If Dallas is about business and art, then Fort Worth is about cowboys and fun. To get to know the city, head along to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, where locals continue to embrace the city’s famous heritage. Stick around for the memorable, daily cattle drive, catch a rodeo before learning some Texas Two Step at the largest honky tonk on earth, Billy Bob’s Texas.


Make your way out of the Stockyards, and you’ll discover a well-rounded Fort Worth. Be sure to add the Cultural District, the Kimbell Art Museum and Sundance Square to your itinerary.

Once upon a time, you may have only heard of Waco thanks to the Baylor Bears or the famous HGTV show Fixer Upper. However, there’s always more to the story. In central Texas, Waco is split by the rolling Brazos River and is known for its thriving arts scene, plenty of outdoor fun and being the home of Dr Pepper.


Historic neighborhoods abound in Waco and at the heart of this experience is the Magnolia Market. Featuring two ancient silos, you’ll find an endless array of decor from 19th and 20th century wall decorations to old-time kitchenware. Add on delectable food trucks and you have the perfect afternoon date.


The history-based fun continues at the Dr Pepper Museum and the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame. The former celebrating the famous drink within the original bottling plant from the early 1900s. While the latter traces the story of the famous Texas Rangers through time.

10. Palo Duro Canyon

You’ll uncover the Palo Duro Canyon in the Texas Panhandle. There may be more famous canyons in the United States, yet this one can claim to be the second biggest. Not far from the charming town of Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon offers a range of activities, from leisurely strolls to heart-in-mouth experiences.


Through gorgeous landscapes on its way to epic views, the canyon’s 30 miles worth of hiking trails will have you wondering how such a green and barren landscape can co-exist. Yet that’s what you’ll find here, as towering monoliths of burnt rock rise to each side and vegetation battle for what little nutrients lay on the surface.


Beyond hiking, sign up for the zipline ride that takes you hundreds of feet above the ground from one side to the other. Afterwards, reward yourself at The Big Texas, the home of the 72 oz steak challenge!

In the far western corner of Texas lies El Paso. It may not jump off the map as a must-see destination, yet to truly know Texas, one must spend time here. El Paso is the definition of a hidden gem, tucked away in some far-flung corner. Those that make the journey will uncover an inviting local culture and an intricate history tied to El Paso’s position as a border town.


Just steps away from Mexico, it’s no shock that El Paso has plenty of influence from the country to the south. Within the Downtown Historic District, you’ll discover Mexican markets and age-old architecture that harks back to El Paso’s beginnings as a trading post in the heart of the Wild West.


Modern architecture soon takes over, including the gorgeous El Camino Real Hotel, a national historic landmark that was once known as the spot to watch the Mexican revolution just a few miles away.

This destination is also known as Sun City, and it boasts incredible views as the sun sets nightly over the Franklin Mountains. There are many great attractions in El Paso , just some of which include the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, the Museum of Archeology at Wilderness Park and the Centennial Museum.

8. Big Bend National Park

In the heart of the Chihuahan Desert is one of the most spectacular national parks, not just in Texas but in the United States. The name Big Bend National Park proves the colloquialism that, yes, everything is bigger in Texas.

Visitors can expect grandiose rock walls that soar up like towers of burnt orange. Crevasses lead to bouts of lush vegetation which stick out, not like a sore thumb, but rather as ornaments to the endless power of Mother Nature.


The rock walls and crevasses have been carved by the might Rio Grande River for untold centuries, acting like a fine brush upon the otherwise harsh landscape. You can appreciate this spellbinding beauty along one of Big Bend’s entrancing hiking trails, with a paddle along the thrilling river, or simply at camp around the fire as the stars sparkle above. Big Bend is an International Dark-Sky Park.


One trek that should be atop your itinerary is the 12.6-mile South Rime Trail that leads to unforgettable vistas.

We’ve taken a look at Fort Worth, now let’s make our way 30 minutes east to Dallas . No Texas experience is truly complete until you’ve stepped foot in the Big D, a nickname that has been synonymous with Dallas since the 1930s. Here, you’ll find one of the top art districts in the United States, arboretums, and plenty of sport.


Covering an incredible 19 blocks, the Dallas Art District is the biggest in the country. Highlights include the beloved Dallas Art Museum, which will take multiple visits to complete. In addition, the city boasts Deep Ellum which is teeming with street art.


Other cities in Texas may be more renowned for their history, but there’s no denying Dallas’ place. It was here the JFK was assassinated, an event you can retrace at the Sixth Floor Museum.

Lastly, there are sports. Dallas is home to America’s Team, the Cowboys, along with the Mavericks of the NBA and the Rangers of the MLB.

6. Galveston

The seaside town of Galveston has long attracted Texans in need of a relaxing (and exciting) family-friendly vacation. But word is out, and the town, which is Texas’ answer to Santa Monica, has taken on a life of its own.

With seemingly endless amounts of sun-soaked shorelines along the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston continues to captivate travelers. Days begin and end on the town’s golden sands. But in between you’ll be exploring historic streets that once featured the “Wall Street of the South”, state parks and heart-pumping theme parks.


Once an immigration port in line with Ellis Island, today visitors can make their choice between learning about the town’s incredible history or simply kicking back with a cocktail as the sun’s rays pour down. To do both at once, explore the Historic Pleasure Pier and let the kids’ experience the 16 fair rides, including a 200ft swing.

5. Texas Hill Country

There are few better places to go with your significant other in the Lone Star State than the Texas Hill Country. In a state that often feels rugged and remote, the lush rolling hills, cute and historic towns plus a collection of vineyards make this region like no other.

Head to Fredericksburg for a dose of German culture, since the area was settled by German settlers in the 19th century. In Fredericksburg, you might visit a winery for a tasting, enjoy bratwurst and sauerkraut at an authentic beer garden or shop for Bavarian souvenirs at an outdoor market.

But it’s not just culture here in Texas Hill Country, its nature is just as memorable. This includes the 140-foot-deep Jacobs Well that leads to a large submerged cave. Then there’s the Natural Bridge Caverns and, of course, Enchanted Rock, great for a picnic hike.

The best time to visit the region is in spring when the Hill Country is ablaze with wildflowers including the Texas State Flower; the Bluebonnet.

4. Padre Island National Seashore

Nowhere on earth could you find a longer, undeveloped seashore than right here on Padre Island. Spanning 70 miles, the Padre Island National Seashore is a birdwatchers dream and one of the world’s vital areas of conservation.

A brief drive from the southern city of Corpus Cristi, the national seashore boasts an impressive collection of untouched beaches that flow into rolling dunes and pristine grassland habitats. Among it all, you can discover an array of species, including Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, which can be found hatching during the summer months.


Enjoying the beach is a big part of the seashore experience. Kids will love building sandcastles and jumping in the Gulf of Mexico. But the shore’s trails will be calling your name. These will help you discover the more than 350 migratory birds that stop along the barrier island on their journey.


Other activities include kayaking the Laguna Madre, or off-road four-wheel driving along the beach.


Thanks to the guitars and drums that play into the early hours in the Dirty Six, South Congress and along Rainey Street, Austin has developed a reputation as a leader in live music. Add on some mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine and you can keep yourself happy all week long.


However, thanks to its position along the Colorado River, Austin is packed with beautiful parks and on-water experiences. You can explore Lady Bird Lake, on foot or kayak, before walking across the memorable Congress Street Bridge. It’s here from mid-spring to early fall that the largest urban bat colony on earth makes the daily flight at sunset.


Other attractions in Austin include the University of Texas, and their museums along with the capitol building.

Getting to Galveston isn’t the only reason you should touch down in Houston. As the biggest city in Texas, Houston is one of the most popular places to visit in Texas. America’s fourth-largest city is a family-friendly destination with an abundance of attractions for the little rascals.


One that will be at the top of your list is the Space Center Houston. While kid-friendly, the whole traveling party will become enamored with the insightful, hands-on offerings. With a focus on science and technology, you can learn about the exploration of space, check out artifacts from the moon, spot the Saturn V rocket and put on an astronaut suit.

Many of the Houston’s biggest attractions are located in the Warehouse District of Downtown Houston, so head there to see the incredible Downtown Tunnel System, soak in the views from the 60th floor Chase Tower Observatory, explore the Downtown Aquarium and catch an outdoor performance at TUTS, or the Theater Under the Stars.


After spending enough time indoors, check out the city’s sprawling green spaces, including Memorial Park and Buffalo Bayou Park.

1. San Antonio

History, food, and culture collide in San Antonio. Otherwise known as the cultural center of Texas, the southern city continues to be unheralded. This is great news for you, as the delectable food scene, the romantic Riverwalk and the insightful museums wait patiently to be discovered.


For this reason, San Antonio shoots to the top of our list of the best places to experience in Texas. Your time here should begin and end along the Riverwalk, which is teeming with world-class restaurants, a vibrant atmosphere plus great shops and central hotels. Before or after your delicious dinner, sign up for a nighttime river cruise.


Another famous attraction in San Antonio is the Alamo, of course, we wouldn’t forget. It will take just a moment to get between this iconic destination and the Riverwalk. The mission was built in 1744 and, almost three centuries later, remains at the forefront of US history.

Map of Texas

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Reader interactions.

May 27, 2019 at 12:42 pm

Houston should be MUCH further down on this list. It’s not really a tourist destination — no real sights to see. Mostly just businesses, highways, and concrete. Otherwise, you nailed it.

March 10, 2019 at 1:18 pm

I love El Paso

July 6, 2017 at 5:02 pm

Detailed coverage of places. Excellent descriptions. Really useful tips.

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50 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Texas

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: April 2, 2021  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Texas is one of America’s biggest states, often referred to as the Lone Star State.

A south-central location bordering some parts of Mexico, it’s known for its hot temperatures, delicious barbecue foods, and certain significant historical sites related to the core of United States history.

It’s also renowned for being the world’s Live Music Capital, boasting over 200 venues for live entertainment throughout its many portions.

Those who aren’t as familiar with America may recognize the state for its cowboy aesthetic, and it continues to be known for ranching, cattle, and livestock till this day.

Because of its size, Texas has no shortage of must-do spots and attractions.

Historic buildings, museums, gardens, national parks, unique geological features, and more pepper the Lone Star State with intriguing sites and locations.

Not sure what to visit?

To help you out, here is our travel guide for the 50 best things to do and places to visit in Texas!

Table of Contents

1. The Alamo

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

The Alamo is one of America’s most significant historical structures, and so it’s one of the must-see Texas attractions to visit.

It is located in downtown San Antonio  and was built in the year 1744 by Franciscans as a mission.

By the time the year turned 1834, however, the Alamo was a functional fort.

In 1836, a small force of a mere 187 soldiers barricaded themselves inside the Alamo, including the likes of Daniel Boone, Jim Bowie, and Davie Crockett.

They were part of a group of men taking a stand in the Texan War of Independence against an army of 3,000 Mexican soldiers.

All the soldiers within the Alamo were killed in the battle, prompting Texan forces to use the battle cry “Remember the Alamo!”

The cry rallied the spirits of the state’s soldiers, eventually leading to their victory over Mexico as they earned their independence from them.

Today, the Alamo is the most visited landmark in the whole state of Texas.

Over two million visitors come to see it annually to explore the exterior and check out the features inside.

A trip here lets you see the fort, long barrack, church, and arcade, and there is also a museum and gift shop where you can learn more about the Alamo.

Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States

2. Space Centre Houston

Tricia Daniel / Shutterstock

Space Centre Houston is another one of Texas’ most popular tourist draws and it’s one of the coolest places to check out, whether you’re interested in space or not!

It is a Smithsonian Affiliate designed for people of all ages, aiming to promote a love of the STEM fields – that is, the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

There are many exhibits at Space Centre Houston that absolutely spoil you for choice.

Moon rocks, artifacts from missions to Mercury and Apollo, and informational tidbits tell you all about NASA’s projects and missions, as well as the history and purpose of space exploration.

You can see a genuine Saturn V rocket, learn about life in space, dress up as an astronaut, and watch shows, too!

Most importantly, though, Space Centre Houston is the home of NASA’s very own Mission Control.

This is where NASA keeps an eye on its space exploration and flights.

Getting the chance to tour Mission Control – as well as potentially meet astronauts and tour the Johnson Space Center – is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Texas!

Address: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058, United States

3. The Sixth Floor Museum

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The Sixth Floor Museum is a sobering location that sits, as its name suggests, on the sixth floor (and seventh) of the former Texas School Book Depository, which is now the Dallas County Administration Building.

It is from this location on the sixth floor that Lee Harvey Oswald fired three gunshots on the 22nd of November, 1963 in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

The Sixth Floor Museum is an honorary museum that chronicles the life, times, and death of President JFK, framing it within the cultural context of 1960s America.

You’ll see accounts of his presidential campaign and term, artifacts, footage, photographs, and more.

Detailed records of the assassination and tales of the president’s legacy are also highlighted.

Above the Sixth Floor Museum, the seventh floor of the red brick building is home to a space for programs and exhibits related to the museum.

Aside from that, you can also check out the onsite bookstore, gift shop, and cafe.

The total collection of the Sixth Floor Museum totals 45,000 items.

For anyone, whether you’re a history buff or just a curious tourist, it is a must-do as it provides information about an event that changed the course of the nation’s history forever.

It’s certainly in the top 5 of any trip to this state.

Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

4. Big Bend National Park

Dean Fikar / Shutterstock

Looking for some of the best vacation spots ?

Big Bend National Park is located in West Texas in the Chihuahuan Desert.

It is one of the most scenic places in Texas and is a great place to spend some time this weekend.

It is named after a portion of the Rio Grande river, where it is located, that forms a large bending shape.

One of the reasons that Big Bend National Park is one of the state’s tourist attractions is its unique and highly varied terrain, offering dramatic and gorgeous scenery at many altitudes.

There are points from 1,870 feet above sea level all the way up to 7,875 feet above sea level!

This also provides a lot of space for flora and fauna to call it their home; more than 1,000 plant types can be found here, as well as animals like bald eagles.

You can have fun in many different ways at Big Bend National Park.

More than 200 miles’ worth of trails to hike are ready to use.

There are three large canyons to visit and take photographs at, namely Boquillas, Mariscal, and Santa Elena.

You can also do activities like birdwatching with 400 species to look out for, camping on the stunning campgrounds, doing watersports, or having picnics!

Address: Big Bend National Park, TX, United States

5. San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the best places to visit in Texas, known throughout the country for its vibrancy and activities.

The walk spans many miles and is packed with shops, eateries, hotels, and more.

It is situated slightly below street level, providing a unique look into San Antonio’s heart.

Though the walk itself is the most popular, you can also enjoy a riverboat cruise, with themes from general sightseeing excursions to fancier dinner tours.

It’s a different experience at night versus during the day, so you’ll want to walk through the San Antonio River Walk twice!

Address: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States

6. Texas State Capitol

LMPphoto / Shutterstock

Being one of the most beautiful states in the US, one of the top things to see in Texas is the Texas State Capitol itself!

Located in Austin , it’s more than simply the state’s center of legislation – it’s also one of the most beautiful places in Texas!

Seated on 22 acres of land, it is surrounded by stunning gardens, expertly manicured and maintained, with memorials and monuments scattered about onsite.

The State Capitol building measures 300 feet in height.

It was built in the year 1888 and is an official National Historic Landmark.

Tours are rewarding, telling you all about the many monuments on the property while giving you insight into the legal and government systems of the state and some information about the building’s history.

Among the memorials at the State Capitol is a Vietnam war monument and a monument to the battle of the Alamo.

There is also the Governor’s Mansion, the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, and A Visitor’s Center to view.

From the aforementioned bridge at night, you can watch a huge mass of tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of Mexican free-tailed bats leaving the bridge’s underside to take off into the night.

Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States

7. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Philip Armitage / Shutterstock

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is located in East Dallas, where it takes up a lush 66 acres of space.

It was built in 1984 and has been consistently showcasing, preserving, and educating visitors on the natural life of Texas and its history.

It’s one of the most fun tourist spots for nature-lovers and history buffs alike.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is home to 16 different gardens – including a children’s garden filled with more than 150 engaging and educational activities – and two historical buildings.

More than 2,400 different kinds of azaleas grow here, alongside many other international trees, ferns, flowers, and shrubs.

The walkways are scattered with sculptures that adorn the garden and provide an artistic flair.

The main historic draw of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is the majestic DeGolyer Mansion, an eye-catching hacienda in Spanish style.

It was commissioned by a local oil baron in 1940.

There is also an 8-acre museum that showcases artifacts, demonstrations, games, and more in a whopping 17 galleries.

Address: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218, United States

8. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

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One of the best things to do in Texas is to explore the impressive and expansive desert terrain of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park .

Located west of El Paso by about a hundred miles, the barren and hostile-looking land can seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually home to many different kinds of terrain, lots of wildlife, and some lovely bodies of water.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a part of the very large Chihuahuan Desert and has the honor of being home to Texas’ four highest mountain peaks.

This includes its titular Guadalupe Peak, which is extremely popular to hike to for an 8-hour round trip on an 8.5-mile trail.

Despite its harsh environment, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park hosts the world’s most wide-reaching Permian fossil reef, plenty of lush woodlands with 80 miles of hiking trails, and rare animals like golden eagles.

Interesting woodland canyons and relaxing hot springs invite you to visit, and there are so many places to explore that you’ll never run out of things to do!

Address: Salt Flat, TX 79847, United States

9. Fort Worth Stockyards

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The Fort Worth Stockyards is the reason that Fort Worth was once known as Cowtown.

From 1866 to 1890, the stockyards were used in the auctioning of cattle, resulting in millions of sales over the years.

It is currently the last stockyard of its kind that remains standing in America, though its function has changed over the years.

As part of the area known as the Old West, the Fort Worth Stockyards were a staple stop for cowboys, specifically those renowned for cattle driving.

Along the long-stretching Chisholm Trail of southern Texas, this was the very last stop with suitable railroads, making it a crucial settlement for the trading of livestock and beef with the rest of the country.

Eventually, the Fort Worth Stockyards transitioned into modernity as interstate highways made railroads less crucial to the business of livestock trading.

Now, the location is filled with places to go such as eateries, shops, and even an indoor rodeo.

Cattle drives are still showcased in the stockyard by professional cowboys for interested guests.

Address: 2501 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164, United States

10. Houston Museum of Natural Science

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The Houston Museum of Natural Science sits on Hermann Park of Houston’s Museum District, and it’s one of those places where you’ll be spoiled for choice on what to do.

It’s huge in size and full of fun attractions, with different exhibits focusing on various topics like wildlife in North America, local Texas ecology, and even the history and culture of the Native Americans.

16 permanent exhibits are spread out over four stories at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

The most popular is tied between the Morian Hall of Paleontology, packed with two stories fossils and prehistoric replicas, and the Cockrell Butterfly Center, home to three stories of humid tropical “rainforest” and hundreds of fluttering insects.

There is also a planetarium, a showcase of minerals and gems, and a rather delightful Faberge exhibit.

Address: 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States

11. Padre Island National Seashore

Cheri Alguire / Shutterstock

Padre Island National Seashore is an extremely crucial conservation location in Texas and is also the longest barrier island in the world.

It measures 70 miles and takes up 130,000 of land, with primarily grassland, dune, and beach habitats for all sorts of unique animals, like rare sea turtles.

It can be found south of Corpus Christi .

For the most part, Padre Island National Seashore is renowned as a birdwatcher’s haven and is certainly one of the best Texas attractions for people with this hobby thanks to its spot on the Central Flyway migratory route.

350 bird species stop here in their journey to and from warmer climates every year.

Relaxing campsites, stunning beaches, and a Junior Ranger Program all add to the draw of the seashore, too.

The Padre Island National Seashore has a visitor center that provides guests with information regarding the seashore and the routes you can take to explore it.

The center also boasts mobility assistance with wheelchairs specially made for beach terrain, as well as guides for activities that can be partaken in, like kayaking and canoeing.

Address: 20301 Park Rd 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, United States

12. Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas is a fun, 213-acre theme park in Arlington, where it holds the honor of being the largest park of its kind in the state.

This alone is enough to make it one of the surefire places to visit in Texas, especially if you have kids – though to be honest, it brings in lots of daredevil adults, too!

This Six Flags establishment is home to the Texas SkyScreamer, which, at 400 feet in height, is the second tallest ride of its variety on the planet and delivers a sheet adrenaline rush.

It also has the New Texas Giant, the very infamous Batman The Ride, and many rides themed after the Looney Tunes.

Apart from rides, you can also check out seasonal events hosted throughout the year at this Six Flags branch, including live country music shows!

Address: 2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76011, United States

13. Hamilton Pool

Wisanu Boonrawd / Shutterstock

Hamilton Pool is one of the state’s most incredible sights to see.

It is an entirely natural spring and serves as a relaxing oasis that you can take a dip into as a break from the local heat.

Its water comes from an underground river that provides freshwater to the plants and tributaries around the main pool.

Hamilton Pool is part of a protected natural preservation area thanks to its waters.

These waters have allowed vegetation and trees of all kinds to thrive in its vicinity.

There is also a large overhang of shade that covers the pool and protects it from the worst of the state’s sweltering sun.

Once upon a time, the pool was hidden in an underground limestone grotto.

Now, it has come free from that dome into a cavern-like space.

From the overhang’s lip, a 50-foot drop of waterfall plunges into the pool, refreshing its contexts and serving as a delightfully cool surprise for visitors.

This is one of those points of interest that you absolutely shouldn’t miss, especially if you’re looking for beautiful places in Texas!

Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, United States

14. Mission San Jose

Kushal Bose / Shutterstock

In 1720, Mission San Jose was set up by Fray Antonio Margil de Jesus.

It quickly became the Queen of the Missions and was the largest in the state, sustaining more than 300 individuals in its walls.

The mission is now a National Historic Site and a State Historic Site.

The complex of Mission San Jose was worked on by the mission’s own inhabitants, reaching completion in 1782.

It would go on to baptize more than 2,000 Native Americans until it ceased mission operation in 1824.

Mission San Jose is now one of the state’s best tourist attractions, regardless of your personal faith.

It is an active parish with open Sunday mass and is National Park Service-maintained.

Its excellent preservation makes it closely resemble missions from 250 years ago.

You’ll see a gorgeous Rose Window – widely considered one of America’s finest ornamentations of Spanish Colonial origin – and many genuine carvings on the body of the church.

An interesting part of Mission San Jose is a church bell tower, specifically its stairway, and the choir loft.

Both hold twenty-five steps carved out of one log of live oak without the use of pegs or nails.

There is also a granary, a gristmill (the state’s oldest), defensive walls, and flying buttresses.

Address: 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214, United States

15. South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center

Chase Dekker / Shutterstock

The South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center is a delightful option among places to visit in Texas.

It lets you get up close and personal with their intelligent and friendly titular mammals, with the mission of educating visitors and protecting dolphins via conservation.

There are many touch tanks, aquariums, and interactive portions of the South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center.

Hermit crabs, starfish, and other marine creatures are among the center’s most loved attractions, in addition to daily presentations on nature, marine mammals, and more.

You’ll even get to go on dolphin tours, where chartered boats bring you to the Laguna Madre Bay to view live dolphins!

Address: 110 N Garcia St, Port Isabel, TX 78578, United States

16. Texas State Fair

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The Texas State Fair was established in 1886 and has been a site for the promotion of community, agriculture, and education in a long-running, entertaining, family-friendly quality event.

It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of Fair Park, which is a National Historic Landmark while advocating for its local community.

The fair runs for a whopping 24 days in a row, during which there is no shortage of fun stuff to do with quintessential Lone Star energy.

Exhibits and activities include petting zoos, exhibits on livestock and farming, entry to the many museums on Fair Park, and more!

The fair is also a charity-oriented event.

It doles out scholarships, offers sponsorship, gives back to the community, puts profits into food banks, and provides free entry to educators and students in the state.

All in all, it’s a spectacle not to be missed if you’re in the state at the right time for it!

Address: 1300 Robert B Cullum Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

17. Museum of Fine Arts Houston

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The Museum of Fine Arts Houston was created in 1900, with expansions and renovations constantly improving it and propelling it forward into the modern area.

It is home to three buildings, a sculpture garden, and a movie theater.

The three buildings are the Caroline Wiess Law Building, Audrey Jones Beck Building, and the latest Nancy and Rich Kinder Building.

Within the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, you’ll find art of all kinds from many different time periods, including photos, drawings, sculptures, paintings, and cultural pieces of Chinese, African-American, and Native American origin.

A range of 64,000 different works of art from six different continents and numerous styles add incredible variety to the experience.

You’ll see mixed media, Italian Renaissance works, mobiles, and French impressionist art.

Some great numbers include Nympheas by Monet and Bacchanale by Picasso.

Outside, the Sculpture Garden is home to some incredible works by the renowned Aniah Kapoor, including the first Bean prototype and the Cloud Column.

Throughout the year, rotating exhibits add some spice to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, so be sure to check them out if you’re looking for where to visit in Texas!

Address: 1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005, United States

18. Kimbell Art Museum

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The Kimbell Art Museum is a very small museum, but it should be on your Texas bucket list because it’s largely considered among the best of its size internationally.

Set up in 1965, the museum is located in Fort Worth and was commissioned by wealthy art collector Kay Kimbell.

The museum’s goal is simple: it aims to foster a love and appreciation for art via its permanent collections, which showcase art, antiquities, and sculptures from international sources.

You’ll find works by Picasso, El Greco, Matisse, Monet, and Rembrandt, as well as collected artifacts from continents like Africa, Asia, and Europe.

With 350 artworks on display, the Kimbell Art Museum is surprisingly comprehensive for its size.

Most of the collection comes from Europe, specifically of the classical period, but it has much more to offer too – like a library of almost 60,000 different reading materials!

Address: 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States

Looking for more thrill around Texas? Why not check out Austin and Dallas? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the top things to do in Austin and some of the best things to do in Dallas !

19. Fort Worth Zoo

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Fort Worth Zoo is Texas’ oldest continuously operating zoo, founded in 1909 and not stopping since.

It began its life with a mere few animals in 1909 and has since grown to be ranked as America’s fifth-best zoo, with 42 animal species.

Fort Worth Zoo aims to provide education and information regarding wildlife conservation as well as the mammals, reptiles, and birds in their care.

As a world-class facility, there are many places to see within the zoo, sectioned off into different species.

More than 68 species here are threatened or endangered, which makes getting to see them up close all the more special.

In addition to all its fun features, Fort Worth Zoo is also the only American zoo that is home to all Great Ape species, namely bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans.

It also has one of the globe’s most well-known and successful colonies for breeding flamingo.

While here, you’ll also see African lions, penguins, hippos, cheetahs, giraffes, meerkats, and so many more.

Address: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110, United States

20. Lady Bird Lake

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Lady Bird Lake is named after President Lyndon Johnson’s wife and is a portion of the Colorado River.

It flows over 416 acres of land and is a reservoir that has grown into one of Texas’ top hangouts.

Hotels and homes line one side while a wide beach is open to the public on the opposite end, fitted with many different trails for your cycling and hiking needs.

The most commonly walked path at Lady Bird Lake is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, which leads to Pedestrian Bridge.

From here, you can cross the river into Austin and visit other local parks that are interconnected, as well as some of the many tourist traps along the river’s edge.

Want to do some more involved activities?

Lady Bird Lake allows for the use of boats, including rentable canoes and kayaks or your own decked-out motorized water vehicle.

A boardwalk, stretching 1.1 miles, gives you a panoramic view of the downtown area while you’re at it.

If you’re looking for what to do while in Texas that will unwind you, definitely give Lady Bird Lake a try!

Address: Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX 78701, United States

21. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the more unique places on our list of Texas attractions.

The rock in question is an igneous rock intrusion, also known as a pluton, made up of a huge pink granite dome measuring 425 feet in height from ground level and spanning over 640 acres.

The monolith, which has been around for a minimum of 11,000 years, gained its name of Enchanted Rock from Anglo and Spanish interpretations of the folklore of the Native Americans.

There are many legends surrounding the centerpiece of the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, with some dating far back into the past and others with more modern connotations involving Anglo-Texans and conquistadors.

One legend that surrounds Enchanted Rock is that the last of a tribe of braves fought to defend themselves from another tribe on the very peak of the batholith.

In a variation of this legend, a princess of the losing tribe threw herself off the mountain when her tribe was killed.

Now, some believe that the monadnock is haunted by the spirits of the fallen tribal warriors and the princess, supported by the Tonkawa natives, who tell tales of ghostly campfires being seen on the rock at night.

One of the best factual features of the Enchanted Rock is that it creaks on cool nights after hot days because of the outer rock’s contraction.

Though the explanation is scientific, it still adds to its lore.

There are also small vernal water pools that appear in the rockface’s depressions, where small little shrimps and marine life begin to take root until the pools dry in the hot months.

This includes a very small quillwort species that is only present here and nowhere else globally.

A final feature worth discussing of the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is its cave, which is one of the planet’s longest granite talus caves.

It is 1,500 feet or so long, packed with spiders, and has tight walls.

If you’re brave, head on in and explore and you’ll find your way out onto the dome.

Artifacts of all sorts have been seen here, as well as plants that thrive on spring water, like prickly pear, persimmons, pecans, and mesquite.

Address: 16710 Ranch Road 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

Planning to visit Fredericksburg soon? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Fredericksburg, TX before you go?

22. Dallas World Aquarium

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The Dallas World Aquarium is a fantastic way to explore the entire world’s oceans from one little spot in Texas.

To call it an aquarium would be a bit of an understatement.

Not only does it hold all sorts of marine and aquatic creatures, but it is also home to land animals, birds, and plants, hosting many that are native to river and sea areas of the planet.

Different portions of the Dallas World Aquarium have something different to offer.

The 20,000-gallon tunnel hosts octopi, stingrays, eels, and other fish.

The Yucatan Peninsula exhibit shows off different birds.

A South African section brings you closer to amphibians and reptiles.

There is even a living rainforest with monkeys, manatees, toucans, and crocodiles, and a fascinating Mayan section houses ocelots and Jabiru storks.

While you’re at the Dallas World Aquarium, try to catch some live feedings.

You may be able to participate in handing an animal some food, and that’s one of the most fun things to do in Texas, for sure!

Address: 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

23. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

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The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is situated in Dallas and claims a floor space of 180,000 square feet.

It first opened its doors in 2012 in order to provide a museum about science for children, providing interactive and hands-on exhibits that are sure to entice your kids.

With 11 halls for exhibits, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is virtually three different museums crammed into one space.

It’s varied with many different fun activities to check out, and it’s designed mindfully with the highest possible score from the Green Building Initiative.

Among the topics that the Perot Museum of Nature and Science covers include human evolution, dinosaur skeletons, earthquakes, bird flight and socialization, and the ecosystems of Texas.

It also has unique exhibits like the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, which includes an interactive activity in the form of a scavenger hunt.

If you love science, a visit here is one of the top things to do in Texas, so head on down this weekend whether you have children in tow or not!

Address: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

24. Bullock Texas State History Museum

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The Bullock Texas State History Museum is one of the most engaging and accurate ways to learn about the story of the state.

It earned its name from the state’s 38th lieutenant governor and has been chronicling the history of the Lone Star State since its opening in 2001, welcoming a total of over 9 million visitors as one of the state’s most popular tourist attractions.

All sorts of different landmarks of the state’s past are recorded here and exhibited alongside artifacts, information, and galleries.

More than 500 of these artifacts are here at the Bullock State History Museum along with interactive exhibits, the state’s biggest IMAX screen, a 4D theatre, and plenty of audio-visual displays.

You’ll get to see the original statue of the Goddess of Liberty, which once resided on the dome of the State Capitol, and an Apollo 14 mission space suit used by Edgar Mitchell himself.

Some other loved exhibits include a preserved hull from the shipwrecked La Belle of the 17th century, presentations on the Alamo, details of the state’s oil industry, and information on the Tejano native culture.

Address: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States

25. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

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The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Texas, especially if you’re interested in Spanish colonial history or the uptick of Catholicism in the Southwest.

It is here where Mission San Juan, Mission San José, Mission Espada, and Mission Concepción are located – all of the most historic missions in San Antonio.

In the 18th century, Franciscan friars decided to establish all these missions along the San Antonio River, about three miles apart along the way.

All of them are some of the most beautiful places in Texas, with unique features like Mission San Juan’s Romanesque features and the gorgeous frescos that remain untouched at Mission Concepción.

Given how many missions there are in this state, it’s natural that the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a convenient way to see as many of these early 1700s structures as possible.

They are free to visit and provide some serenity in the hubbub of the city.

26. Natural Bridge Caverns

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The Natural Bridge Caverns are nothing short of beautiful and are among the many pretty places in Texas that deserve a spot on your vacation list.

The network is the biggest accessible one of its kind in America, with more than 10,000 formations of stalactite, including a 40-foot-high wall full of them known as King’s Throne.

Fifty years ago, the Natural Bridge Caverns were found by students from St Mary’s University burrowing bravely through a narrow passage.

The caverns were a huge discovery and were named after the giant bridge of limestone, spanning 60 feet, across its entrance.

In 1971, the caverns became a National Natural Landmark.

If you want to witness the many things to see in the Natural Bridge Caverns, you can book your choice of themed tour and be privy to the many individual chambers.

When you’re done exploring the underground, head back up top to check out the extremely large maze of 5,000 square feet, the zip lines, and the opportunity to pan for gems!

Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States

27. Nasher Sculpture Centre

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The Nasher Sculpture Centre is the proud site of a whopping 55,000 square feet of space dedicated entirely to sculptures.

Located opposite the Dallas Museum of Art, it was created by husband and wife team Raymond and Nancy Nasher.

It is widely considered the world’s most incredible collection of contemporary sculptures, making it a great choice for where to go in Texas this weekend, whether or not you’re an art aficionado!

At the Nasher Sculpture Centre, you’ll find more than 300 different artworks from the likes of Rodin, Matisse, and even Picasso.

Different sizes of art pieces, ranging from the tiny to the massive, are scattered about, easy to learn about via docent-led tours.

Don’t forget to check out the garden outside the Nasher Sculpture Centre, which spans 1.4 acres and has 25 more fascinating pieces to witness!

Address: 2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

28. Dallas Zoo

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The Dallas Zoo is one of the best things to do in Texas for animal lovers.

It can be found in Marsalis Park, where it takes up 106 acres and has been around since 1888.

This makes it the biggest and also the oldest zoo in Texas.

Better yet, it is run by the Dallas Zoological Society and is a non-profit attraction!

Over 406 species of animals – with more than 2,000 individual creatures – are housed at the Dallas Zoo across a variety of habitats.

The zoo primarily focuses on two themes, seen in its two major exhibit sections.

The first is the Wilds of Africa and the second is ZooNorth, and specific highlights include the Endangered Tiger Habitat, the Otter Outpost, and the Giants of the Savanna.

There is also a fun Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari monorail that lets you see animals from habitats of nations like Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia in the Great Rift Valley.

Address: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203, United States

If you’ve got more time and the willingness to explore, do check out El Paso and Fort Worth! If you do plan the trip, here are some cool things to do in El Paso and some of the best things to do in Fort Worth !

29. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

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Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is located in the Texas Gulf Coast and is one of the key places to go if you want to do a lot of touristy activities and find amusement and entertainment galore.

Though high in price, the boardwalk is a great place to check out eateries, amusement rides, shops, games, and more.

Pleasure Pier itself was first built in the 1940s before it was destroyed by Hurricane Carla in 1961.

It was reestablished in 2008, then was damaged by both Hurricane Ike and Hurricane Harvey.

It has since been, once more, rebuilt to continue offering its delightful array of attractions.

Address: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States

30. Dallas Museum of Art

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The Dallas Museum of Art is another option for what to do in Dallas, Texas.

It first opened its doors in 1903 and is home to over 24,000 works of art.

It is one of America’s biggest museums and offers tons of art from the country and from international sources, ranging from ancient to contemporary.

At the Dallas Museum of Art’s permanent collection, you’ll see all sorts of art styles, eras, and cultural depictions.

Artifacts from Greece, Rome, and Egypt provide glimpses into classical artistry.

Ancient works from the Mediterranean, Africa, and Asia provide unique insights into global creativity.

The European art gallery boasts big names like Claude Monet and spans the 18th to 20th centuries.

Modern works are done by greats like Jackson Pollock, Roy Lichtenstein, and Mark Rothko.

It’s an art-lover’s paradise!

Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

31. Japanese Tea Garden

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The Japanese Tea Garden is one of the best Texas attractions for a calm, serene time.

It began its life as a simple quarry until officials of San Antonio, Texas decided to turn it into a thriving, peaceful space.

They turned it into a garden and a lily pond and requested the aid of a knowledgeable Japanese family to transform it into a genuine Japanese space.

Sadly, that family was violently moved away after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the attraction was changed to a Chinese tea garden in order to avoid public backlash.

The war would have to end before it could be returned to its original name and purpose.

In the early 2000s, the city began refurbishing it after years of vandalism and neglect.

It is now a gorgeous space with a pagoda, koi ponds, and waterfalls.

Address: 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States

32. Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Texas attractions are often about beating the powerful heat!

That’s why Schlitterbahn Waterpark located in New Braunfels is so popular as one of the fun things to do in Texas.

It is packed with attractions for people of all ages, including downhill racing slides, fast tube slides, a heated lagoon, a water coaster, a lazy river, splash parks, and child-specific attractions.

Planning to stay in this part of Texas for a while?

Schlitterbahn Waterpark is also a resort, so you can book cabanas or rooms to enjoy the full experience!

Address: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

33. Jacob’s Well

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Jacob’s Well is a fascinating place and one of the more unique points of interest in Texas.

It rests at the base of a large rock pile and is a round blue pond that has a 30-foot vertical drop on the surface.

Then, beneath that, there are many caverns and caves, arranged in a dangerous network and ready to be explored.

Jacob’s Well is the state’s second-biggest entirely submerged cave.

For adrenaline junkies who like diving and swimming with a little risk, a dip in Jacob’s Well may be one of the most fun things to do in Texas.

Just make sure that you’re experienced, equipped, and aware of the risks before you check out the cave network, as several divers have become trapped there over the years.

Address: 1699 Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676, United States

34. The Moody Gardens and Aquarium

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The Moody Gardens and Aquarium are a theme park comprising 242 acres of excitement and fun, complete with a hotel, a convention center, nine attractions, a beach, lazy river, a rainforest zoo, and even a rope and zip line course!

It’s basically numerous tourist attractions all rolled up into one.

Though the prices are a little steep, most visitors to Texas consider a trip to The Moody Gardens and Aquarium to be very worth it.

There are so many things to try, explore, and experience for those of all ages, so you’ll be spoiled for choice!

Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States

35. Rothko Chapel

Rothko Chapel

Rothko Chapel isn’t just one of the best places to visit in Texas, it’s also one of the world’s most holy locations.

In fact, it is on the list of “Sacred Places of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Most Peaceful and Powerful Destinations” according to National Geographic.

The chapel is a mix of a simple, serene building of faith and a complete work of art.

14 paintings cover its walls on the interior, made with black-and-color-splashed styles by Mark Rothko himself.

Rothko worked with many great architects to create the windowless structure, but he passed away in 1971, a little while before the chapel could officially open.

More than 80,000 people come to this part of Texas every year in order to visit the majestic brilliance of the Rothko Chapel.

It is meant as a meditative worship space for people of all faiths, so it is free to use by you when you visit.

Address: 3900 Yupon St, Houston, TX 77006, United States

36. Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The oldest botanic garden in Texas is definitely one of the sites to see to add to your list!

Within its bounds, there are more than 1,700 begonia species and 350 orchid species, which are just some of the over 2,500 different plant species that call the Fort Worth Botanic Garden home.

It is dedicated to the preservation of exotic and rare plants.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is made up of 22 individual gardens that take up a total of 110 acres.

It was first set up in 1934 and has grown to contain a vegetable garden, a conservatory measuring 10,000 square feet, a Zen Garden, the Fort Worth Japanese Garden, and a Lower Rose Garden.

Address: 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States

37. Sea Turtle, Inc.

Sea Turtle, Inc

Sea Turtle, Inc. located in South Padre Island isn’t one of the typical tourist places in Texas, but it’s a lot of fun to visit!

It is a non-profit group focused on rehabilitating sea turtles and releasing them back into the wild.

Its mission also involves the education of the public regarding the plight of sea turtles and current conservation efforts in their favor.

At Sea Turtle, Inc., which was founded in 1977, expect to leave with a lot of new knowledge.

You’ll be privy to educational talks, get to witness sea turtles swimming and recovering in big tanks, and garner access to an outdoor facility tour.

Address: 6617 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States

38. McDonald Observatory

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McDonald Observatory is a bit of a niche item to add to a Texas bucket list, but it’s well worth the trip for those who love space and the world beyond our world.

Located on the campus of the University of Texas, it takes advantage of the naturally dark, clear skies above the state.

As an education center, the McDonald Observatory offers a wide range of events and programs.

Nighttime viewing events, sun viewing, and popular star parties are just a few of the ways that it involves the space-loving community in its operations.

Many different large telescopes are present at the McDonald Observatory, which is a research department at its core.

One of the biggest scopes on the planet, called the Hobby-Eberly, is also onsite.

A guided tour will let you see these huge telescopes up close, though you won’t be able to look through the most valuable ones.

Address: 3640 Dark Sky Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734, United States

Looking for more excitement around Texas? Why not check out Galveston and Houston? If you do plan the trip, here are some top things to do in Galveston and some cool things to do in Houston !

39. SeaWorld San Antonio

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If you’ve decided that San Antonio is one of your places to travel to while in Texas, you’ll have a lot of fun visiting SeaWorld San Antonio !

The amusement park is aquatic-themed, allowing you to get up close and personal with all sorts of marine wildlife and animals.

Dolphins, seals, penguins, sharks, orcas, and more make up the different aquatic creatures you’ll be able to witness at SeaWorld San Antonio.

There are also lots of water rides that are perfect for cooling yourself down in the state’s blistering heat as well as normal, adrenaline-pumping dry rides like the hypercoaster of the Steel Eel or the inverted roller coaster of the Great White.

Check out the show schedule this weekend and see if you can watch the killer whales perform!

Address: 10500 Sea World Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, United States

40. The Frontiers of Flight Museum

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The Frontiers of Flight Museum is a prime example of what to do in Texas for aviation enthusiasts.

It was founded in 1988 and has since become the premier museum of aerospace in Dallas and beyond.

Situated on Lemmon Avenue, it takes up around 100,000 square feet of space and is affiliated with the Smithsonian.

Among the coolest artifacts and exhibits at the Frontiers of Flight Museum include 200 or so aircraft from World War II, a full-sized model of the Wright flyer, a preserved Apollo 7 Command module, a Stearman PT-17 Kaydet Biplane, and remnants of the famous Hindenburg airship.

There are a total of 13 galleries to pursue that each discusses different aspects of aviation history.

Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75209, United States

41. National Museum of the Pacific War

The National Museum of the Pacific War is an educational and engaging offering among Texas attractions.

It is dedicated to the remembrance of World War II’s Pacific theater, with displays and artifacts presented in a glamorous and pizzazz-filled way.

It spans 33,000 square feet across six acres of space.

The museum takes up space in what was once the Nimitz Museum.

It was set up in 2000 and provides visitors with extremely modern amenities and fascinating exhibits that are surprisingly glitzy for a topic this sovereign.

More than 90 display cases, all climate-controlled, showcase artifacts, posters, photographs, and more.

The National Museum of the Pacific War also provides a full theater, 40 audio-visual displays, decommissioned armament and vehicles, and a replica battlefield complete with troop carriers, tanks, and foxholes.

Address: 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

42. The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum

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The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is a rather interesting choice among places to visit in Texas.

It’s a genuine jack-up drilling rig that was retired and converted into a fun attraction for those curious about the operation of such rigs and what it’s like living on them.

Fittingly, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum is located close to downtown Houston, Texas, which is the oil capital of the world.

It is run by the Offshore Energy Center and offers a unique look into the 1969 operation of the Ocean Star.

A self-guided tour lets you roam three different levels of the rig, where you’ll see videos on oil exploration and extraction, exhibits, equipment, and even the pipe deck.

Address: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550, United States

43. San Jacinto Monument

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The San Jacinto Monument is the tallest war monument in the entire world, measuring 570 feet and boasting a wide base of 125 feet squared.

It weighs 220 tons, offers a lift to an observation deck on its peak, and is made of a mix of concrete, stone, and steel.

The San Jacinto Monument is a testament to honor those who fought for the independence of Texas, especially during the Battle of San Jacinto.

The land of that battle led to the beginnings of the monument, which was purchased in the 1890s with the aid of fundraising efforts by Jesse H. Jones, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Republic’s Sons and Daughters group.

Today, the San Jacinto Monument rests in the San Jacinto Battleground Historical State Park, which is also one of the points of interest you should visit.

The structure is also a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark thanks to its incredible Art Deco design.

Address: 1 Monument Cir, La Porte, TX 77571, United States

44. San Antonio Botanical Garden

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The San Antonio Botanical Garden is one of the many stunning tourist attractions in Texas, and it’s a lot of fun to walk through its many paths.

It covers 38 acres of ground, is family-friendly, and seeks to increase knowledge of plants through entertainment and education regarding the information on conservation.

The formal gardens boast different blooms every season, providing vibrant hues and lovely scents as they burst forth to show off their colors.

Tropical plants, a Rose Garden, and a country area add variety to the already vast garden.

Indoor displays and the Texas Native Trail all let you check out the many different florae, ranging from local to international and from common to exotic.

Guided tours can help you discover all that San Antonio Botanical Garden has in store.

If you’re interested in creating your own garden back home, the WaterSaver Garden provides information and examples of backyard design, green gardening, and more.

Address: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States

45. Fort Davis National Historic Site

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The Fort Davis National Historic Site is a gorgeous frontier fort that is expertly preserved.

Named after Jefferson Davis, the Secretary of War at the time, Fort Davis was erected in 1854 as a method of protecting travelers from raiders on the San Antonio – El Paso road of Texas.

From 1867 to 1881, it was staffed exclusively by African American and blank soldiers.

During the Civil War, Fort Davis fell into disuse and was eventually abandoned in 1891.

It wasn’t until 1867 that it was reopened.

Today, it contains over 20 well-preserved buildings – a successful amount among the 100 ruins – and five of them are decorated to include furnishings of the period.

One of them is the barracks, which have been refurbished with beds, each one labeled with the name of an actual occupant from 1884.

At Fort Davis National Historic Site, interpreters tell you the story of what life was like on Fort Davis.

Bugle calls sound regularly to emulate the atmosphere of its time.

It’s one of the most fascinating places to visit in Texas, especially for history-lovers.

Address: Fort Davis, TX 79734, United States

46. Caddo Lake

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Caddo Lake is a collection of ponds and swamps in a lovely medley that forms a 25,400-acre bayou.

It rose to fame in 1910 after freshwater pearls were found in the mussels of the lake, leading to the three-year “pearl rush” of Texas.

Now, Caddo Lake continues to harbor mussels with pearls, though harvesters no longer frequent its depths.

Instead, it has turned into one of the things to see in the state of Texas.

Bald cypress trees are dropped in Spanish moss and gently grace the surfaces of the stunning waters.

You can fish, birdwatch, examine the flora, or test your luck in spotting some cool places and reptiles as you kayak around!

Address: Anthony Dr, Karnack, TX 75661, United States

47. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

The Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center is the home stage of the must-see Dallas Symphony Orchestra .

Their reputation is tremendous, with acoustics and performances known throughout Texas.

They perform everything from modern pieces from pop culture and movies to classical staples of Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart.

The Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center itself was finished in 1989 and boasts incredible acoustics thanks to its shoebox shape.

It’s also popular thanks to its clever interior design that allows even the rear seats to get a direct, clear view of the stage.

If you have time this weekend, drop in to see if a show is happening!

Address: 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

48. Caverns of Sonora

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The Caverns of Sonora are among the best things to do in Texas if you like odd but entirely natural formations.

The cave was found in 1905 by sheer accident and, decades later, sparked the interest of professional spelunkers.

When caver Jack Burch noticed some damage to the natural rock formations in 1956 due to all the exploration, he decided to create trails, stairs, and railings that would allow people to explore safely without harming the caverns.

The formations with the Caverns of Sonora have odd, fun names.

The little nodes of minerals along the surfaces of the caves are called popcorn.

The hollow cylindrical mineral pieces are soda straws.

And of course, the layered flowstone made from water flowing through the floor, again and again, is called bacon!

These formations cover every corner and inch of the caves, providing a fascinating spectacle that feels a little like a fantasy world away from Texas!

Address: 1711 Pvt Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950, United States

Planning a road trip around Texas? Why not visit Lubbock, San Antonio, and Waco? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Lubbock , some cool things to do in San Antonio , and some top things to do in Waco !

49. Palo Duro Canyon

xradiophotog / Shutterstock

The Palo Duro Canyon is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Texas, and with a title like that, it had better be on your list of places to go!

In the center of the Texas Panhandle, the canyon opens up slowly – a mere gap that grows and grows into a plunging schism of vibrant layers of red, tan, and brown.

The Palo Duro Canyon is the second longest and second-largest of American canyons, boasting a 20-mile width at its widest point and a 120-mile length as it rises 3,463 feet above sea level and dives 800 feet down.

It was created by the Red River’s Prairie Dog Town fork and was named after the mesquite and juniper trees around it, with the Spanish word for “hardwood”.

For 12,000 or so years, Folsom and Clovis’s natives have inhabited the area, hunting bison and mammoth.

In more recent times, Kiowa, Apache, and Comanche natives have also used Palo Duro as a home and resource.

Address: 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015, United States

50. Museum of the Weird

Bex Walton / flickr

The Museum of the Weird is one of the few remaining dime-store museums in America, with most dying out in the 1920s.

This one, located in Austin, Texas, is extremely rare as a result.

It was made by Steve Busti, who runs it out of the rear of his store, which is called the Lucky Lizard.

Many unique and cool pieces decorate the Museum of the Weird.

Among them are a feejee mermaid, a hand of glory that was pickled and dried from a real hanged man, shrunken heads, a chicken with two heads, a cyclops pig, and even mummies.

There is a special Wax Museum portion as well as a unique darkroom called the Minnesota Iceman, which tells the tale of an old, confusing mystery.

The Museum of the Weird also boasts a theatre with a rotating cast of strange performers.

One will hold a live wire, one will hurt themselves, one will perform a traditional sideshow, and one is a three-legged dog.

If nothing else, the museum lives up to its name, so if you love the bizarre, add it to your list of what to do!

Address: 412 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Texas

Texas is a warm, friendly, and vibrant state, and its size means that depending on where you are, you’ll get to experience a different vibe and atmosphere.

Each one makes up a unique aspect of Texas, and this list can help you figure out what to see that will let you experience the very most of that variety!

Happy travels.

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Top Tourist Attractions In Texas

These are the top tourist attractions in Texas TODAY!

There’s no doubt Texas is a great place to live. We have so much to see and do. I sometimes think I won’t be able to see it all in my lifetime. The Lone Star State, the second-largest state in the United States, can overwhelm a person, especially a native like me. I hope to see it all, but if I don’t get to, I can at least write about it and share it with you all. Here are the top tourist attractions in Texas to put on your to-do list. And don’t wait too long!

From the massive amusement parks in Texas to our wonderful national parks, historical sites, world-class museums, and beautiful beaches in the south (we think so), you’ll need to make several trips here to see all these top attractions below.

North Texas

Dallas world aquarium.

One of Texas’s most popular tourist attractions is the Dallas World Aquarium. The aquarium features an impressive collection of plants and animals worldwide. Some say it’s a zoo, too. Visitors can see many different animal species on land, including snakes, lizards, and many more.

You can also find a variety of marine life, such as sea turtles, seahorses, and jellyfish that live in the aquarium’s massive ocean tank. Several exhibits feature plants and other wildlife native to North Texas. In addition to its exhibits, the aquarium offers educational programs for schoolchildren and families.

The Dallas World Aquarium is located in downtown Dallas’s West End Historic District—admission charge.

Dallas Arboretum And Botanical Garden

The Dallas Arboretum features many acres of beautiful gardens full of various flowers and plants within its season. It holds special events throughout the year, including its top two – one in spring and the other in fall. Don’t miss the two historical mansions filled with art and furniture from days gone by—admission charge.

The Sixth Floor Museum

A museum dedicated to the events surrounding President John F. Kennedy’s life, assassination, and the legacy he left behind.

Here, Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed President John F. Kennedy. This museum is dedicated to preserving history and educating visitors about the incident.

The Sixth Floor Museum is on the sixth floor of the old Texas School Book Depository building at the Dealey Plaza and is one of the most popular attractions in Dallas—admission charge.

According to Viator , the Sixth Floor Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Texas.

Fort Worth Botanical Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is an award-winning public garden boasting over 13,000 plants worldwide and is open year-round. If you want to see it all, you’ll spend a long time here. The gardens included are a Japanese Garden, a Desert Bonsai Display, a rose garden, and a few more. It’s large, and you’ll do a lot of walking. We saw one restaurant, and it didn’t open until 11 am. Visitors can also participate in several events throughout the year, such as Holiday Lights.

Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of Texas’ best zoos, with over 500 animal species, including birds, mammals, and reptiles that can be seen up close …and it’s airconditioning. When the weather is almost unbearable in the summer, we go inside to cool off, but we are always amazed at the chimpanzees and other outdoor animals. Our favorite is the bears.

Fort Worth Stockyards

Fort Worth is known as the “City of Cowboys and Culture,” and it’s easy to see why. The city’s historic stockyards are home to shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and even a working cattle drive …and real cowboys! At the center of it is the Livestock Exchange Building, so don’t miss that.

Six Flags Over Texas

An amusement park in Texas that many states north of Texas visit. Fun things happen here all day and into the night. I can’t count how many times I went as a kid and the times I took my kid and grandkids. I am due to take my youngest and his friends, but waiting until they are old enough to want to ride all the roller coasters. Please save your money, because it’s not cheap! But it is the perfect place to have happy kids all day long. Go as soon as it opens in the season and early for shorter lines and better parking spaces.

Central Texas

Texas state capitol.

The Texas State Capitol is located in downtown Austin and is one of Texas’ most iconic buildings and one of the most impressive state capitols in the country.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the building or stroll around leisurely. Touring the State Capitol Building is a must, especially if you’re a Texan. I think I’ve only visited three times in my life. I’m due to take my grandson for sure.

Make a weekend out of your visit.

Austin is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Texas, with its iconic skyline and famous music scene. Having the title Live Music Capital of the World , you can definitely do more there besides touring the Capitol. Making a weekend out of your visit is easy, with live entertainment on every corner. It is an outdoor lover’s paradise with many opportunities to hike, bike, camp, and kayak.

Texas Hill Country

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you’ll love the Texas Hill Country. It’s a haven for outdoor adventure, known for its natural beauty and scenic views. This region in Central Texas is known for its rolling hills, rivers, and lakes. The Hill Country is also home to several state parks that offer camping and hiking trails. The scenic drive along is enough for me. The area also has many wineries, breweries, and distilleries open to the public.

Dripping Springs

In the small town of Dripping Springs, you’ll find Hamilton Pool, with daring limestone cliffs and beautiful waterfalls. It was once a popular swimming hole, but swimming is no longer allowed. Jacob’s Well in Wimberley offers swimming and is worth a trip (I hear).

While in Dripping Springs, visit the visitor center and ask about the true dripping springs. Ask if they have time to tell how the town got its name. The springs are on private property and across the street from the visitor center.

The Gruene Historic District in New Braunfels features several shops, boutiques, and restaurants, including the Gruene Hall, one of Austin’s oldest dance halls. The banks of the Guadalupe River adorn the town. You can also rent inner tubes to float the river. There is a company around the corner from the town –ask someone where it is if you can’t find it.

South Texas

The Alamo is the top national historic landmark in Texas, where visitors spend much of their vacations. San Antonio gets lots of visitors because of the Alamo. This historic site was built as a mission and turned into a frontier outpost. Now it’s where we all convene to learn about our Texas history. The gift shop has a wide variety of Texas souvenirs, including books about the Alamo.

San Antonio Riverwalk River View. Photo Credit: Valencia Hotel Group

San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio River Walk is probably the most popular attraction in Texas. It spans 10 miles between downtown San Antonio and Mission Reach Park at its northernmost point. The riverwalk offers over 20 restaurants, hotels, and shopping. If anything, you can enjoy strolling 0n the cobbled walkways along the river banks, viewing all the beautiful buildings and the landscape, and watching the riverboats full of people go by.

The riverboat cruises are fun as well. The tour guide tells the story of the buildings and the history of San Antonio, and I bet they will display information you never knew about. I think you’ll be in awe of it.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Texas’ largest cavern with awe-inspiring cavities and great guided tours. Hidden Wonders is the newest and biggest cave tour at Natural Bridge Caverns.

If you’re feeling it, the zip line course out there now is fun. But I have not been since it’s been added.

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch next door is a drive-through ranch with over 45 animals. Has a separate admission charge.

South Padre Island

South Padre Island (SPI) is a haven for Texans and out-of-state travelers. Popular activities and attractions in SPI include:

• Padre Island National Seashore
• Dolphin Tours
• Isla Blanca Park
• Visit the SPI birding and alligator sanctuary
• Sea Turtle Rehab and Rescue Center
• Build a Sandcastle
• Adventure Park
• Horseback riding on the beach

Image by David Mark from Pixabay

Space Center Houston

FYI. Space Center Houston is the official museum and Visitor Center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

It is a great place to learn about the history of space exploration and get hands-on with some exciting exhibits. From seeing the real Apollo 11 capsule, Apollo 12 Lunar Module Simulator, and the Mission Control Center to learning how astronauts eat in space, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do here. It also has an IMAX theater, which shows various films throughout the year.

Houston Museum Of Natural Science

A unique experience learning about education with interactive exhibits: if it’s anything link the one in Fort Worth, you and your children will be amazed. See the planetarium and butterfly exhibit, and if it’s still there, check out the shark tank. Sharks have always fascinated me, but I wouldn’t want to get up close to one!!

Museum Of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum District of Houston houses many museums, including this one, and showcases many local artists.

Scenic view of the window in Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park, a West Texas treasure, is a natural area that covers many square miles along the Rio Grande River. The park contains mountains, desert lands, and acres of land untouched by man. Various wildlife is made up of bobcats, coyotes, javelinas, and many more that are hidden from visitors.

Several hiking trails, biking trails, and kayaking opportunities are available along the riverbanks. No matter what season you visit Big Bend National Park, you will find something new each time you visit. This park is excellent for nature lovers and adventurers of all levels.

It amazes me why this national park is on every list I research. It’s one of Texas’s top tourist attractions, yet no one visits it. That’s right, Big Bend National Park doesn’t get that many visitors because it’s so far from everyone. Heck, I have yet to go. My parents took us on many road trips, but not this one – they went alone. My mom still reminds me that she and my dad rode a donkey in Mexico for only $5.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Cadillac Ranch

Just outside Amarillo lies Cadillac Ranch — a roadside attraction consisting of 10 Cadillacs buried nose-first into an earthwork sculpture stretching across two miles of Texas highway I-40 near Amarillo in the state’s Panhandle region.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in southwestern Texas and continues into New Mexico. The park includes a 24-mile stretch of mountains, several high plateaus, and desert valleys between El Paso, Texas, and Carlsbad, New Mexico.

It offers camping facilities and hiking trails that will appeal to all levels of hikers, from beginners to experts.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Photo Credit: Chastity V.

Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon State Park  is a beautiful destination only 15 miles from downtown Amarillo, Texas. in West Texas.

The Palo Duro Canyon State Park has many different trails for visitors to explore, including those that lead to overlooks with incredible views of the canyon floor below.

We can forget about beautiful East Texas. I didn’t find any top tourist attractions in my research, but I want to add my own because there is so much to see in the piney woods.

What about Nacogdoches? It’s the oldest town in Texas.

Caddo Lake State Park, where you can see large cypress trees.

Or what about all the other beautiful state parks? Go explore!

And you may find this article interesting too – Top Attractions In The Texas Panhandle .

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

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Austin   Travel Guide

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26 Best Things To Do in Austin

With more than 300 days of sunshine, it's no surprise Austinites and many of Austin's top activities are outdoors. From Zilker Metropolitan Park to the Butler Hike and Bike Trail to Mount Bonnell, visitors mingle with dogs on leashes, teens

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• 1-Day Itinerary
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Zilker Metropolitan Park Zilker Metropolitan Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Austin City Limits Music Festival transforms Zilker Park for the first two weekends in October. Some attractions like the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and the Zilker Botanical Garden will be closed for those dates. – Catherine Parker

Sitting on the banks of the Colorado River, this beloved park spans more than 350 acres and buoys Austin's reputation as one of the Best Places to Live . Zilker Metropolitan Park shelters some of the city's most popular attractions – from the Zilker Botanical Gardens to Barton Springs Pool – as well as several athletic fields and plenty of open space for strolling. You'll be able to spend a whole day here thanks to a range of activities such as swimming, canoeing or digging for fossils at the Austin Nature and Science Center 's Dino Pit. Art aficionados can peruse the works housed within the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum while garden enthusiasts can peruse the specialty gardens in the Zilker Botanical Garden. After a day spent strolling the park, cool down with a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a 3-acre natural swimming hole. A theater, train for children and sports courts are also on-site. The park hosts several popular events, including the Austin City Limits Musical Festival, the ABC Kite Fest and the holiday Trail of Lights  (each affect the park's accessibility so plan ahead).

Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake free

A cherished outdoor space in the center of the city, the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail (locals refer to it as the Lady Bird Lake trail) serves as a popular place for runners, walkers and cyclists, for both locals and visitors. The urban path takes visitors along the water's edge and passes by plenty of places to relax and picnic. Part of the trail is a 1.3-mile boardwalk, which offers amazing downtown views along with bronze belts emblazoned with Texas song lyrics. There are several restrooms and water fountains along the path, plus scenic overlooks.

Outdoor enthusiasts raved about the peace and quiet beauty the trail affords. Recent visitors jumped on wherever convenient and enjoyed the trail's views. Most said the trail was busy enough to feel safe. It is also a good place to see the Austin bats . 

Texas Capitol Texas Capitol free

Standing stoically in the heart of central Austin is Texas's legislative center, the State Capitol. Opened in 1888, this landmark (made of Texas sunset red granite) stands 14 feet taller than the  U.S. Capitol  in  Washington, D.C.  Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Texas Capitol was designated at National Historic Landmark in 1986.

The structure underwent a massive restoration starting in the 1990s, including replacing the zinc statue of the Goddess of Liberty that sits atop the dome with an aluminum one. The restoration also included a 667,000-square-foot underground extension to accommodate how much the state government had grown.

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University of Texas at Austin University of Texas at Austin free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visitors should research and purchase parking ahead of their UT event as there is no free parking on campus. Ride-share and public transportation are also options. – Catherine Parker

In addition to being home to 52,000 college students, the University of Texas also shelters several attractions and venues that appeal to residents and visitors alike. Concert-goers head to the newly completed Moody Center for big name musical acts and UT basketball games. Meanwhile, the Bass Concert Hall hosts Broadway shows and smaller traveling acts. The open-air Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium vibrates on UT football game days with seating for more than 100,000 fans.

Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater

Odds are your favorite band has played at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. It's home to the legendary "Austin City Limits" television series, which holds the title of the longest running music series in American television history. The theater seats more than 2,700 people. The balcony level houses the Jack & Jim Gallery, which showcases the portfolio of Jim Marshall, a photographer with a passion for music. If you can't secure seats to a show, take a tour of the venue. The tour covers ACL history along with visiting the galleries. Tours depart from Monday to Saturday at 11 a.m. and last 90 minutes.

Music buffs praise the acoustics at ACL Live, claiming that there is not a bad seat in the house. Others said it was a bucket-list venue, similar to those in Nashville . A few note that some security staff was rude.

Lake Travis Lake Travis

Texas believes bigger is better and its lakes are no exception. Lake Travis is nearly 64 miles long and boasts 271 miles of shoreline. First-time visitors can get a good idea of its scale if they drive by Mansfield Dam, the dam that created Lake Travis while taming the Colorado River. After seeing the massive dam, stop by Mansfield Dam Park for impeccable lake views and activities like picnicking, swimming and scuba diving. Numerous other parks line the lake, offering everything from picnic tables and hiking trails to water sports and swimming. (Note: Hippie Hollow Park is a clothing optional beach and access is restricted to patrons 18 and older.) Travelers who want to enjoy the scenery with a drink should try The Oasis on Lake Travis. It's perched above the lake and calls itself the "Sunset Capital of Texas."

Recent visitors enjoyed their time on the lake, especially when viewing the sunset. It didn't seem to matter too much which park patrons picked, as many of the spots offer clean beaches and good amenities. Some recommended water shoes for slippery and jagged rocks underfoot.  

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Circuit of the Americas Circuit of the Americas

The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is primarily a Formula One race track, though it hosts events year-round ranging from motor sports to concerts to its holiday-themed Peppermint Parkway lights display. The Lenovo United States Grand Prix race, which COTA has hosted since 2012, is a three-day Formula One event held in October that features heart-pounding race action paired with top musical acts and immersive experiences for attendees.

Beyond Formula One, COTA also hosts NASCAR and MotoGP events, as well as concerts at the on-site Germania Insurance Amphitheater, the largest outdoor concert venue in Austin. Behind the amphitheater, visitors can head up the COTA Tower for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and racetrack 250 feet below; it costs $35 to visit the observation platform. 

Mount Bonnell Mount Bonnell free

For great views, head to Mount Bonnell at Covert Park, which provides sweeping vistas of the city, Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. The 5.1-acre linear park is home to a 781-foot outcrop, considered one of the highest spots in the area. Mount Bonnell is designated a Texas Historic Landmark and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The point has proven to be an enduring tourist destination since the 1850s.

Recent visitors said Mount Bonnell offers great views that are best on clear days. Others suggested a sunset visit for the top experience. Regardless of when you hike up, make sure to take water. Additionally, make sure to take your valuables with you when you park.

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South Congress Avenue South Congress Avenue free

South Congress Avenue is the section of Congress Avenue after it passes over Lady Bird Lake. With amazing views of the Texas State Capitol , South Congress, or SoCo as the locals call it, plays a vital role in the city's culture. From the murals around every corner – like "Willie for President" (Nelson that is) to the iconic "I Love You So Much" – people are snapping pictures everywhere. Shopping along SoCo ranges from authentic boot shops to curated boutiques attracting both travelers and locals who are in search of conversation-starting outfits. Another top activity is patio dining where you can grab delicious bites from morning to night along with choice vantage points for people-watching. When you're not shopping, eating or strolling, swing by the Continental Club to grab a drink and enjoy some live music.

Recent visitors appreciated their time along SoCo, some for shopping, others for its restaurants or live music. The murals along South Congress are a top must-see for travelers. Others enjoyed the vibe that they described as "Americana."

Blanton Museum of Art Blanton Museum of Art

Located on the  University of Texas at Austin  campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is a must-see for any art enthusiast. It's considered one of the largest university art museums in the country, and is home to more than 21,000 works of art. Its collection of Latin American art (totaling more than 2,000 works) is one of the oldest, largest and most comprehensive collections in the U.S. with artists from Mexico and the Caribbean along with Central and South America. For some first-time visitors, Ellsworth Kelly's "Austin" grabs a lot of attention: "Austin" is a 2,715-square-foot stone structure with colored glass windows. Sometimes referred to as "the Kelly Chapel," this freestanding building features three sets of stained-glass windows, a totemic wood sculpture and 14 marble panels hanging on its interior walls.

In May 2023, the museum unveiled several new exterior features, including shade structures that stand three stories tall and look like flower petals; an outdoor sound gallery; a path that leads to a nearby parking garage, and the Lookout, a large window that allows visitors on the museum's second floor to gaze down at the newly upgraded plaza.

Sixth Street Sixth Street free

A trip to the "Live Music Capital of the World" wouldn't be complete without discovering some of Austin's up-and-coming talent along Sixth Street. After a drastic restoration took place in the 1960s to save the area from its grungy reputation, it became the hub of Austin's music scene in the 1970s. Today, Sixth Street between Congress Street and Interstate 35 (known as Dirty Sixth to locals) is the center of the musical action in Austin. The area buzzes with activity from shops, restaurants, bars and live music joints, such as Maggie Mae's, Pete's Dueling Piano Bar and the historic hotel, The Driskill (rumored to be haunted).

Another standout is Esther's Follies, a longstanding Texas tradition that combines comedy, music and magic. The show began in 1977 and still showcases its satirical blend of politics and pop culture .

LBJ Presidential Library LBJ Presidential Library

U.S. News Insider Tip : Visitors should be mindful of the University of Texas home football games since the LBJ library is in the same area. Traffic will congested and the ride-share drop-off location will be closed. – Catherine Parker

While the thought of visiting a presidential library may sound like a bore, this one is an exception. Dedicated to the 36th president of the United States, the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library houses all the expected artifacts – such as presidential papers – as well as several quirkier exhibits like LBJ's limousine. Visitors wander from a display depicting the day he became president (after John F. Kennedy’s assassination) to his oval office to a talking LBJ animatronic that tells tales. In addition to the wealth of information about the president, you can learn about former first lady Lady Bird Johnson in both a gallery about her and her former office.

Barton Springs Pool Barton Springs Pool

Nestled in  Zilker Metropolitan Park , Barton Springs Pool has been a favorite swimming hole for locals and out-of-towners for generations. Native Americans used the springs for thousands of years before European colonists arrived. William Barton first developed it as a swimming hole in the 1830s. Fed by underground springs, the 3-acre pool consistently stays between 68 and 70 degrees. The grounds also feature grass areas for lounging, bathhouses and an educational exhibit about the history of the Barton Springs, including its endangered salamander.

Recent swimmers said the experience is one of the things that makes Austin unique. Even on a hot summer afternoon, the water felt a bit cold (especially for little kids), according to reviews. Some suggested wearing water shoes. Multiple visitors also warn of sizeable crowds and recommend arriving early.

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Bullock Texas State History Museum Bullock Texas State History Museum

Named for Texas's 38th lieutenant governor, the Bullock Texas State History Museum explores the Lone Star State's vibrant past with artifacts ranging from the original Goddess of Liberty statue that resided at the top of the  State Capitol's dome to a 1960s missile control console from the space center in Houston . Along with galleries featuring more than 700 artifacts, the museum features rotating special exhibits to reflect the diverse history of Texas. The museum is also home to the largest IMAX screen in the state as well as the Texas Spirit Theater, a cafe with an outdoor patio and a souvenir shop. 

Native Texans and out-of-towners alike say the museum has a good layout and many recommend setting aside a few hours to take in all there is to see. Moviegoers enjoyed their IMAX experience.

Rainey Street Rainey Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Grab one of Austin's scooters, a pedicab or walk to Rainey Street, especially on weekend nights. Traffic can grind to a standstill and cheap parking is nonexistent. –  Catherine Parker

As the Live Music Capital, Austin offers more than one entertainment district. Sixth Street oozes into Fourth's Warehouse District, packed shoulder-to-shoulder with bars and clubs. South Congress Avenue across Lady Bird Lake offers more dining and boutique shopping paired with classics like The Continental Club. Meanwhile, Rainey Street attracts a younger crowd, blending dog-walking locals cutting out early with visitors in town for a bleisure trip. This area features many of its original bungalows repurposed into venues and restaurants. The vibe might be laid-back, but the sound systems are cranked up. In between venues, Austin's ubiquitous food trucks offer a sampling of the city's dining scene. Several high-rise hotels cast their shadows down on Rainey, such as  Hotel Van Zandt , and the Austin Convention Center is nearby.

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Why Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is opening a state office in Taiwan

The united states and taiwan do not have diplomatic ties, but state department says they enjoy "a robust unofficial relationship.".

Texas will open a state office in Taiwan to enhance trade and cultural relations, Gov. Greg Abbott announced Sunday during an economic development trip to Asia.

“Texas and Taiwan are critical economic partners that seek to drive the future of innovation,” Abbott said in a news release from Taipei, the capital of the self-governing island off the coast of China. "Both initiatives — an economic agreement and a new State of Texas Taiwan Office — will strengthen the economic and cultural relationship between Texas and Taiwan."

The new office in Taiwan will fall under the governor's economic development and tourism umbrella.

The trip to Asia also included visits to South Korea and Japan. The governor was joined by his wife, Cecilia; Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson; Democratic state Sen. Carol Alvarado of Houston; and Republican state Reps. Angie Chen Button of Richardson, Giovanni Capriglione of Keller and Jacey Jetton of Katy. Button was born in Taipei.

More: China launches 'punishment' drills around Taiwan. Here's why Beijing says it's doing it

The United States severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan, once known as the Republic of China, in 1979 as part of the agreement that normalized the nation's relationship with the People's Republic of China, which had been isolated after the Communist takeover in 1949.

However, according to the U.S. State Department, which describes Taiwan as "a leading democracy and a technological powerhouse," the U.S. and Taiwan "have a robust unofficial relationship."

"The United States and Taiwan share similar values, deep commercial and economic links, and strong people-to-people ties, which form the bedrock of our friendship and serve as the impetus for expanding U.S. engagement with Taiwan," the State Department says on its website.

More: Taiwan hit by strongest earthquake in 25 years; 4 dead and dozens injured: Updates

Abbott signed what his office called an Economic Development Statement of Intent with Taiwan Economic Affairs Minister Jyh-Huei Kuo "to further boost investment, expand trade, spur job creation, and increase innovation in critical industries between Texas and Taiwan."

The document's priorities include collaboration in such sectors as semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicles and energy resilience.

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LIST: Attractions, parks closed in Texas coastal areas due to Beryl

If you plan on visiting the coast after the storm, watch out for debris on beaches.

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CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Hurricane Beryl made landfall on the Texas coast early Monday morning, causing several popular parks and attractions to temporarily close.

If you were planning on visiting Matagorda, Houston, Galveston or surrounding areas this week, know that these communities were some of the most impacted by Beryl. Flooding rains of 4-6″ with pockets of 10+” will be possible from the Houston metro area through Texarkana.

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Because the storm moved east, South Padre Island, Corpus Christi, Port Aransas and Rockport were left mostly unscathed by Beryl.

However, some parks in the area are still closed as crews assess any damage.

Port Aransas was closed to visitors on Sunday, but the city has since reopened. The ferry service has also resumed.

If you plan to visit the coast after the storm, keep an eye on debris and extended closures due to any damage.

What’s closed

• Moody Gardens : The Galveston attraction is closed on Monday, July 8. The Moody Gardens Golf Course and Palm Beach will remain closed on Tuesday, July 9.
• Padre Island National Seashore : The park is closed as a team assesses the park for any damage. Once complete, sand berms placed at the beach entrances will be removed.
• Port Lavaca : The Lighthouse Beach and Bayfront Peninsula Parks closed at 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 7.
• Brazos Bend State Park closed at 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 7. It plans to reopen on Thursday, July 11, as conditions allow.
• Galveston Island State Park closed at 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 6. It plans to reopen on Friday, July 12, as conditions allow.
• Goose Island State Park in Rockport closed to visitors on noon Sunday, July 7. It will reopen as conditions allow.
• Huntsville State Park is closed on Monday, July 8. It will reopen as conditions allow.
• Lake Somerville State Park in Somerville closed on Monday, July 8. It will reopen on Wednesday, July 10, if conditions allow.
• Mustang Island State Park near Corpus Christi closed on Sunday, July 7. It will reopen when conditions allow.
• Sea Rim State Park in Sabine Pass plans to reopen on Thursday, July 11, as conditions allow.
• Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center in Houston closed on Monday, July 8. It will reopen on Tuesday, July 9, if conditions allow.
• Village Creek State Park in Lumberton closed at 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 7. It plans to open at 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 10, if conditions allow.

What’s open

• Port Aransas : The mandatory visitor evacuation was lifted at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 8.
• Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi : The Texas State Aquarium resumed normal operating hours on Monday, July 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• USS Lexington : The museum in Corpus Christi reopened on Monday, July 8.

KSAT is your Weather Authority. Our team of meteorologists is tracking the latest with Tropical Storm Beryl. Meteorologist Justin Horne will have reports on the ground along the Texas Gulf Coast this weekend.

For the latest on Beryl’s forecast, click here.

• Texas counties issue mandatory, voluntary evacuations as Beryl targets coast
• Beryl makes landfall near Matagorda; Staying warm, dry, and breezy in San Antonio Monday
• Couple marries in an impromptu beach ceremony in Rockport due to Beryl

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