Texas, the Lone Star State, offers a wealth of diverse attractions and experiences for travelers. From bustling cities to charming small towns, natural wonders to historical landmarks, there’s something to captivate every visitor. This vast state boasts an array of destinations that showcase its unique culture, landscapes, and heritage.
Exploring these 14 carefully selected Texas destinations will ensure a memorable and worthwhile trip for any traveler. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or cultural experiences, these locations represent the best of what Texas has to offer. Each destination has its own distinct character and attractions, promising to enrich your journey through the state.
1) NASA Space Center, Houston
The NASA Space Center in Houston offers an unparalleled journey into space exploration. Visitors can marvel at authentic spacecraft and artifacts from NASA’s missions.
The center’s exhibits showcase the history and future of space travel. Guests can touch a real moon rock and see astronaut suits up close.
Tram tours take visitors behind the scenes of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. The Saturn V rocket, used in the Apollo missions, is a highlight for many.
Interactive displays and simulators provide hands-on experiences for all ages. The center also hosts special events and presentations by astronauts throughout the year.
The NASA Space Center is a must-visit destination for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike. It offers a unique glimpse into humanity’s greatest adventures beyond Earth.
Address: 1601 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058
Phone: (281) 244-2100
Website: spacecenter.org
2) The Alamo, San Antonio
The Alamo stands as an iconic symbol of Texas history in the heart of San Antonio. This former Spanish mission played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution, most famously during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836.
Visitors can explore the historic limestone buildings and learn about the site’s rich past through exhibits and guided tours. The Long Barrack Museum houses artifacts and displays that bring the Alamo’s story to life.
The Alamo’s chapel, with its distinctive façade, is the most recognizable feature of the complex. Guests can step inside to view the sacred space where many defenders made their last stand.
The beautifully landscaped grounds offer a peaceful setting for reflection. Visitors often pause at the Cenotaph, a monument honoring those who died defending the Alamo.
The Alamo is open daily and admission is free, though some special exhibits may have a fee. Photography is not permitted inside the buildings to preserve the reverent atmosphere.
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: www.thealamo.org
3) Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park offers a stunning showcase of Texas wilderness. This vast expanse of Chihuahuan Desert landscape covers over 800,000 acres along the Rio Grande.
Visitors can explore diverse terrain, from towering canyons to desert plains and mountain peaks. The park boasts over 150 miles of hiking trails, catering to all skill levels.
Santa Elena Canyon stands out as a must-see attraction. Its towering limestone cliffs frame the Rio Grande, creating a breathtaking scene.
The Chisos Basin provides a cooler retreat within the park. It’s an ideal spot for hiking and wildlife viewing, with a chance to spot black bears and mountain lions.
Stargazers will appreciate Big Bend’s designation as an International Dark Sky Park. The clear night skies offer unparalleled views of constellations and the Milky Way.
For those seeking a scenic drive, the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers spectacular desert vistas and geological formations.
Big Bend National Park
Address: 1 Panther Junction, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
Website: www.nps.gov/bibe
Phone: (432) 477-2251
4) South Padre Island
South Padre Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting activities for visitors. This coastal gem boasts pristine white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Laguna Madre Nature Trail or visit Sea Turtle Inc. to learn about sea turtle conservation efforts. The trail provides opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
For adventure seekers, South Padre Island delivers with parasailing, kiteboarding, and dolphin watching tours. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the jetties or join deep-sea fishing charters.
The island’s dining scene features fresh seafood and Tex-Mex cuisine. Visitors can indulge in local flavors at beachfront restaurants or casual eateries.
Families will enjoy attractions like Beach Park at Isla Blanca, offering water slides and pools. The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center provides educational experiences for all ages.
South Padre Island Visitors Center: 610 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597. Website: www.sopadre.com
5) Historic Stockyards, Fort Worth
The Fort Worth Stockyards offer a genuine taste of the American West. This National Historic District transports visitors back to the era of cowboys and cattle drives.
Twice daily, visitors can witness The Herd, a cattle drive featuring Texas Longhorns. It’s a unique spectacle that captures the essence of Fort Worth’s cowboy heritage.
The district boasts an array of attractions, including museums, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore Western-themed stores or dine at authentic Texan eateries.
For those seeking entertainment, the world’s largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob’s Texas, provides live music and bull riding shows. It’s a must-visit for country music enthusiasts.
History buffs can embark on a heritage walking tour to learn about the Stockyards’ rich past. The tour offers insights into the district’s transformation from a livestock market to a popular tourist destination.
The Stockyards also features Mule Alley, a recently developed area with upscale shopping and dining options. It adds a modern touch to the historic district.
Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District
Address: 131 E. Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164
Website: www.fortworthstockyards.org
6) Texas State Capitol, Austin
The Texas State Capitol stands as an impressive landmark in downtown Austin. Built in 1888, this Renaissance Revival structure showcases the state’s grandeur with its distinctive pink granite exterior and towering dome.
At 302 feet tall, the Texas State Capitol surpasses the height of the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. by 14 feet. Its striking red granite facade and cast iron dome create a memorable sight on the Austin skyline.
Visitors can explore the capitol grounds and interior for free. Guided tours offer insights into Texas history and the building’s architecture. The expansive rotunda and legislative chambers provide a glimpse into the state’s governing processes.
The capitol complex also houses various monuments and memorials on its 22-acre grounds. These outdoor spaces offer a pleasant area for strolling or picnicking while taking in views of the iconic building.
Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.tspb.texas.gov/prop/tc/tc/capitol.html
7) The Sixth Floor Museum, Dallas
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza offers visitors a compelling look into one of the most significant moments in American history. Located in the former Texas School Book Depository building, the museum explores the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
Exhibits chronicle the 1960 presidential campaign, Kennedy’s time in office, and the events surrounding his assassination in Dallas on November 22, 1963. The museum preserves the sniper’s perch where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly fired the fatal shots.
Visitors can explore multimedia displays, historic films, photographs, and artifacts related to the assassination and its aftermath. The museum provides audio guides to enhance the experience as guests move through the exhibits at their own pace.
Advance ticket purchases are recommended due to the museum’s popularity. Plan to spend about 90 minutes exploring the exhibits. The museum store offers books, documentaries, and 1960s-inspired souvenirs.
Address: 411 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75202
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
Website: www.jfk.org
8) Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities in west Texas. The park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet.
Visitors can explore over 80 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Popular trails include the Guadalupe Peak Trail and the McKittrick Canyon Trail, which showcases stunning fall foliage.
The park’s varied ecosystems support a wide array of plant and animal life. Visitors may spot mule deer, elk, and even mountain lions in the rugged terrain.
For history enthusiasts, the park preserves remnants of the Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach route and ancient Native American rock art. The Frijole Ranch History Museum offers insights into early settlers’ lives.
Camping is available at Pine Springs and Dog Canyon campgrounds. Stargazing opportunities abound in the park’s clear night skies.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, 400 Pine Canyon Drive, Salt Flat, TX 79847. Open year-round. Website: www.nps.gov/gumo
9) Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs
Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural wonder located in Dripping Springs, Texas. This stunning oasis features a unique grotto formed by the collapse of an underground river dome thousands of years ago.
Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the emerald-green pool surrounded by limestone cliffs and a 50-foot waterfall. The preserve offers hiking trails through a canyon filled with diverse flora and fauna.
Reservations are required to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve. Guests should plan ahead and book their time slot online before arriving. The park provides picnic areas for those who want to make a day of their visit.
The preserve is a popular destination during hot Texas summers, offering a cool respite from the heat. It’s advisable to arrive early in your reservation period to fully enjoy the natural beauty of this remarkable site.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Website: parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve
Phone: (512) 264-2740
10) Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore offers a pristine coastal escape on the Texas Gulf Coast. This 66-mile stretch of protected shoreline separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre, providing visitors with unspoiled natural beauty.
The park is known for its clean beaches and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, beachcombing, and birdwatching. The area is particularly popular for sea turtle nesting, attracting nature enthusiasts.
Padre Island National Seashore is accessible year-round, with temperatures ranging from 50°F in winter to 90°F in summer. The park provides a peaceful alternative to the more crowded South Padre Island, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Located southeast of Corpus Christi, the national seashore is easily reachable by car. Visitors should exercise caution when using GPS, as some units may provide inaccurate directions.
The park offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and kayaking. Its remote setting allows visitors to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.
Padre Island National Seashore
20420 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Website: www.nps.gov/pais
Phone: (361) 949-8069
11) Marfa Lights, Marfa
The Marfa Lights are a mysterious phenomenon that draws visitors from around the world to this small Texas town. These unexplained lights appear in the night sky east of Marfa, dancing and flickering on the horizon.
Sightings of the Marfa Lights date back to the 19th century. Witnesses describe them as glowing orbs that move, merge, and change colors. Some attribute them to supernatural forces, while others seek scientific explanations.
The best place to view the lights is at the official Marfa Lights Viewing Area. Located 9 miles east of town on U.S. Highway 90, this site offers an unobstructed view of the desert where the lights typically appear.
Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, cameras, and patience. The lights don’t appear every night, but those who are lucky enough to see them often describe the experience as unforgettable.
Marfa Lights Viewing Area
U.S. Highway 90, 9 miles east of Marfa, TX 79843
Open 24/7, no admission fee
www.visitmarfa.com/marfa-lights
12) Schlitterbahn Waterpark, New Braunfels
Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels offers a thrilling aquatic experience for visitors of all ages. This expansive park spans over 70 acres along the Comal River, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting attractions.
The waterpark features an impressive array of rides and activities. Guests can enjoy river rides, water slides, and relaxing pools. The park’s attractions range from mild to wild, catering to both adventure seekers and those looking for a more leisurely experience.
Schlitterbahn has earned a reputation as one of the world’s best waterparks. It has received this prestigious recognition for 26 consecutive years, solidifying its status as a top-tier destination for water enthusiasts.
The park’s location in New Braunfels makes it an ideal spot for families and groups seeking a refreshing getaway. With free parking and a variety of on-site amenities, Schlitterbahn ensures a convenient and enjoyable visit for all guests.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark, New Braunfels
400 N. Liberty Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130
Phone: (855) 246-0273
Website: www.schlitterbahn.com/new-braunfels
13) Lady Bird Lake, Austin
Lady Bird Lake is a scenic reservoir in the heart of Austin, Texas. Created in 1960 as part of the Colorado River, it was renamed in 2007 to honor former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson.
The lake offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular ways to explore the water.
Surrounding the lake is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a 10-mile path perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. The trail provides stunning views of the Austin skyline and natural scenery.
Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck catching bass, catfish, and sunfish in the lake’s waters. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse species that call the area home.
The lake hosts events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. Locals often gather to watch the famous Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony emerge at sunset.
Lady Bird Lake is easily accessible from downtown Austin and offers a refreshing escape from the urban environment. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Texas.
Address: Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.austintexas.gov/department/lady-bird-lake
14) Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Texas Panhandle. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” it is the second-largest canyon in the United States.
Visitors can explore the park’s rugged terrain through various activities. Hiking trails wind through the colorful rock formations, offering stunning vistas of the canyon landscape.
Mountain biking enthusiasts can tackle challenging paths, while horseback riding provides a unique way to experience the park’s natural wonders. For those preferring a more relaxed approach, scenic drives offer spectacular views.
The park also features campgrounds for overnight stays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the canyon’s tranquil atmosphere. Geocaching and birdwatching are popular activities for nature lovers.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is rich in history and geological significance. Its vibrant rock layers tell a story spanning millions of years, captivating both casual observers and geology enthusiasts alike.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015
Phone: (806) 488-2227
Website: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon
Exploring Texan Culture
Texas boasts a rich cultural tapestry woven from diverse influences. The state’s unique heritage and traditions offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the Lone Star spirit.
Historical Significance
Texas history is marked by pivotal events that shaped its identity. The Alamo in San Antonio stands as a symbol of Texan independence, commemorating the 1836 battle against Mexican forces. Visitors can explore this iconic mission and learn about the brave defenders who fought there.
The San Jacinto Monument near Houston marks the site where Texas won its independence. Standing at 567 feet, it’s the world’s tallest stone column memorial. The nearby museum houses artifacts and exhibits detailing Texas’ journey to statehood.
Pioneer villages like the Dallas Heritage Village offer a glimpse into 19th-century life. These living history museums feature restored buildings and costumed interpreters, bringing the past to life for modern visitors.
Culinary Delights
Texas cuisine is a flavorful blend of influences, reflecting the state’s diverse cultural heritage. Barbecue reigns supreme, with regional variations across the state. Central Texas is known for its slow-smoked brisket, while East Texas favors a sweeter, tomato-based sauce.
Tex-Mex is another culinary cornerstone. Dishes like chili con carne, fajitas, and queso have become beloved staples. San Antonio’s River Walk offers numerous restaurants serving authentic Tex-Mex fare.
Food festivals celebrate local specialties. The Texas Pecan Festival in Groves and the Poteet Strawberry Festival showcase the state’s agricultural bounty. These events offer visitors a taste of Texas’ culinary traditions and community spirit.
Outdoor Adventures in Texas
Texas offers diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife for outdoor enthusiasts. From rugged mountains to coastal wetlands, the Lone Star State provides countless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Scenic Landscapes
Texas boasts breathtaking natural wonders across its vast terrain. The iconic Enchanted Rock in the Hill Country rises 425 feet above ground, attracting rock climbers and hikers. Its pink granite dome offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Big Bend National Park showcases the Chisos Mountains and Chihuahuan Desert. Visitors can hike through canyons, soak in hot springs, and gaze at star-filled night skies. The park’s remoteness ensures a true wilderness experience.
Palo Duro Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” features colorful rock formations and 120 miles of trails. Horseback riding and mountain biking are popular activities in this striking landscape.
Wildlife Observations
Texas’s diverse ecosystems support a wide array of animal species. Padre Island National Seashore provides nesting grounds for endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. Visitors can witness turtle hatchling releases during summer months.
Brazos Bend State Park, near Houston, offers excellent alligator viewing opportunities. Boardwalks and trails allow safe observation of these prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat.
The Lost Maples State Natural Area showcases fall foliage and rare birds. Birdwatchers flock to this Hill Country gem to spot the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo.