Craving a big adventure? Head to Texas! From vibrant cities to wild landscapes, Texas offers cowboy culture, live music, historic missions, and sizzling BBQ. Whether you're hiking desert trails, dancing in honky-tonks, or touring world-class museums, the Lone Star State has something bold for every traveler.

Texas Highlights:

  • For Music Fans: Experience Austin’s Live Music Scene – Catch bands on Sixth Street or at outdoor festivals year-round.
  • For History Buffs: Remember the Alamo in San Antonio – Tour this iconic mission and dive into Texas’s revolutionary past.
  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Explore Big Bend National Park – Hike desert canyons, raft the Rio Grande, and stargaze under vast skies.
  • For Families: Visit the Houston Museum District – Discover kid-friendly science, space, and art museums all in one area.
  • For Food Lovers: Go on a Texas BBQ Road Trip – Sample brisket, ribs, and sausage from legendary joints across the state.

Best Time to Visit Texas

The best time to visit Texas is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). Enjoy mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and lively outdoor festivals before or after the intense summer heat.

How to Get to Texas

  • If you are traveling by car: Texas is well-connected by major highways like I-10, I-35, and I-45. Driving distances between cities can be long, so plan accordingly.
  • By Air: Major airports include Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), and Austin-Bergstrom (AUS), with flights from across the globe.
  • By Train: Amtrak routes like the Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited connect cities such as Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso.

Where to Stay in Texas

  • Recommended for Families: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort (San Antonio) – Resort-style stay with lazy river, golf, and activities for all ages.
  • For Couples: Hotel ZaZa (Dallas or Houston) – Eclectic boutique hotel with romantic décor and spa services.
  • For a Boutique Hotel Stay: Hotel Saint Cecilia (Austin) – Retro-glam hideaway near South Congress with a cool, artsy vibe.

Best Things to Do in Texas

For Science Lovers and Families: Space Center Houston


Explore exciting exhibits and see real spacecraft during a fun family trip.

For Science Lovers and Families: Space Center Houston

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Children and adults alike can take a trip through the world of space exploration at the Space Center Houston. This Smithsonian Affiliate is dedicated to the history of space exploration and to foster a love of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) in its visitors. The museum features a large collection of moon rocks and other space artifacts, theater experiences, and fun shows and attractions. View a Saturn V rocket, explore the real NASA Mission Control, and learn what it is like to live in space. Ticket prices vary.

Address: Space Center Houston, 1601 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058, Phone: 281-244-2100

For History Buffs: The Alamo


Visit this historic site and admire famous sights from Texas' past.

For History Buffs: The Alamo

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In 1836, 200 men took a stand for Texas in a fierce battle at the Alamo, a mission that had been converted into a fort in San Antonio. Some of them were famous American frontiersmen such as Daniel Boone, Davie Crockett, and Jim Bowie. Though they ultimately lost the battle, Texas went on to win the war for independence from Mexico. Today, the Alamo draws more visitors than any other historic landmark in Texas.

Guests can tour the fort, church, long barrack, arcade, and the museum/gift shop. Tours are self-guided, but audio accompaniment is available for an additional fee.

Address: The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, Phone: 210-225-1391

For Culture Seekers: The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park


Walk along preserved homes and explore affordable local history in downtown Houston.

For Culture Seekers: The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park

© The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park

The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park maintains the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Museum Gallery and presents a large selection of tours and lectures about the fascinating history and culture of Houston. The museum showcases rotating exhibits related to all aspects of Houston’s history.

The tours on offer are many and varied. Yyou can book a Women’s History Tour, a Black History Tour or a tour of one of the many historic buildings which have been Houston landmarks for decades. In addition to managing the museum and the tours the Heritage Society also hosts various educational programs for all ages.

Address: 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002, Phone: (713) 655-1912

For Art Lovers: The San Antonio Museum of Art


Discover global masterpieces and enjoy artistic sights on a cultural weekend.

For Art Lovers: The San Antonio Museum of Art

© The San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art is one of the country's premiere art museums, originally opened to the public in 1981 within the city's renovated historic Lone Star Brewery complex. The museum serves as the anchor today of the Museum Reach of the city's River Walk and houses an impressive collection of more than 30,000 artworks and artifacts spanning from antiquity to the present day, including some of the nation's most impressive collections of ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Asian art. Other substantial collections include Latin American and contemporary art collections, including one of the nation's most impressive collections of Latin American folk art.

Address: The San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215, Phone: 210-978-8100

For Curious Kids: Houston Museum of Natural Science


See dinosaur skeletons and explore exciting exhibits in this easy downtown attraction.

For Curious Kids: Houston Museum of Natural Science

© Houston Museum of Natural Science

The natural world and all its wonders are on display at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The museum features 16 permanent exhibits that cover a wide range of topics. Guests can see real dinosaur skeletons, tour the Hall of Ancient Egypt, and view beautiful gemstones and jewels from around the world.

Other exhibits showcase Native American culture and history, North American wildlife, and the ecology and wildlife of Texas. The museum also contains an observatory, butterfly center, and large-screen theatre.

Address: Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, Phone: 713-639-4629

Attractions for Couples

For Foodies: San Antonio Riverwalk


Stroll beside the water and savor romantic views lined with restaurants.

For Foodies: San Antonio Riverwalk

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The San Antonio Riverwalk is the most visited tourist attraction in all of Texas. The river channel was originally developed as a means of flood control to protect the city. Today, guests can sample the best of food, shopping, art, museums, and lodging at the dozens of businesses that line the 2.5-mile walkway along the San Antonio River.

San Antonio Riverwalk also hosts special events such as parades, artisan shows, food and drink festivals, and the beautiful Ford Fiesta de las Luminaries, held each December. The Riverwalk is open 365 days a year. Individual business hours vary.

For Architecture Fans: Texas State Capitol


Admire grand architecture and explore Texas history on a quick visit.

For Architecture Fans: Texas State Capitol

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The Texas State Capitol is more than just the legislative center of the state. This massive complex sits on approximately 22 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and contains the Capitol Building, the Visitor's Center, and the Governor's Mansion.

Visitors to Austin can learn about the legislative process by taking a guided tour of the capitol or view the graves of Texas heroes in the nearby Texas State Cemetery. Three blocks away, the Bullock Museum showcases the history and culture of Texas. The museum contains three floors of exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a cafe and gift shop. All of the sites are open daily except on major holidays.

Address: Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, Phone: 512-463-4630

For Spiritual Seekers: Mission San Jose


See restored ruins and walk through this peaceful and affordable historic site.

For Spiritual Seekers: Mission San Jose

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Mission San Jose is both a state and national historic park. The mission was built in 1720 and became known as the "Queen of Missions" for its beautiful carvings, stone walls, and church. Mission San Jose acted as an important social and cultural center, and it is still an active mission today.

Visitors can tour the mission, church, convent, granary, and the original stone walls that protected the property. A visitor center sits adjacent to the mission as well.

Address: Mission San Jose, 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214, Phone: 210-932-1001

Recommended Activities for Families

For Animal Lovers: Fort Worth Zoo


Look at exotic animals and enjoy family fun all day long.

For Animal Lovers: Fort Worth Zoo

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The Fort Worth Zoo, founded in 1909, is the oldest continuously operating zoo in Texas, and USA Travel Guide ranks it as the 5th best zoo in the United States. The zoo features 542 species of animals, birds, and reptiles, as well as exciting attractions such as a splash park, petting zoo, carousel, theater, and zoo train.

They are dedicated to animal education and wildlife conservation and host many summer camps, field trips, educational classes, and seminars for children and adults. The Fort Worth Zoo is open 365 days a year and features half-price admission on Wednesdays.

Address: Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110, Phone: 817-759-7555

For True Crime Enthusiasts: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza


Explore JFK history and view unusual exhibits in this iconic building.

For True Crime Enthusiasts: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

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On November 22, 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald fired three shots from the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository, assassinating President John F. Kennedy and changing the course of American history forever. Today, the sixth and seventh floors of the former depository have been converted into a museum.

The sixth floor chronicles the life and death of the 35th president within the context of American culture in the 1960's. The seventh floor hosts special exhibits and programs. A gift shop, bookstore, and café are also located on the premises.

Address: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, Phone: 214-747-6660

Where to Eat in Texas

  • Recommended for Families: Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q – Laid-back Texas BBQ chain perfect for kids and big appetites.
  • For Fine Dining: Franklin Barbecue (Austin) – World-famous brisket and long lines worth the wait.
  • For Tex-Mex Cravings: Ninfa’s on Navigation (Houston) – Historic hot spot known for fajitas, margaritas, and classic flavors.

If you are interested in local events:

  • For Music Fans: Austin City Limits Music Festival (October) – Two weekends of top artists, food trucks, and Zilker Park fun.
  • For Families: State Fair of Texas (Dallas) (September–October) – Classic fun with fried food, rides, and Big Tex himself.
  • For Rodeo Fans: Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (February–March) – The world’s largest rodeo with concerts, food, and livestock shows.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Austin, Texas:

  • For Nature Lovers: McKinney Falls State Park (20–25 min) – Hike trails, swim at waterfalls, and enjoy a peaceful picnic.
  • For Wine Enthusiasts: Driftwood (30 min) – Sip Texas wines at hill country vineyards like Duchman or Fall Creek.
  • For History Buffs: Texas State History Museum (10–15 min) – Discover centuries of Lone Star stories and exhibits.
  • For Family Fun: Austin Nature & Science Center (10–15 min) – Kids will love the dino dig pit and wildlife exhibits.
  • For Lake Adventures: Lake Travis (25–30 min) – Rent a boat, try ziplining, or just relax with lakefront views.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • How big is Texas and what can visitors do there?
    • With over 260,000 square miles and 35 cities, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Texas. Visitors could spend a month in the Lone Star State and still not experience everything.
  • What major cities should visitors explore in Texas?
  • What kinds of attractions can visitors find in Texas?
    • With its beautiful desert and mountain scenery, historical sites, lakes, beaches, train rides, science museums, family fun parks, romantic castles, breweries, waterparks, mountains, amusement parks, caves, and botanical gardens, Texas offers something for everyone.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and wildflowers in bloom. The Driskill (Austin) – A historic and luxurious hotel in downtown Austin. See Texas Bluebonnets – Visit the Hill Country for stunning wildflower views.
Summer (June-August) – Hot but great for water activities. Hotel Galvez (Galveston) – A beachfront stay with historic charm. Relax at Padre Island National Seashore – Enjoy beaches and wildlife.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and festival season. Hotel Emma (San Antonio) – A top-rated boutique hotel on the River Walk. Experience the State Fair of Texas – Enjoy fried foods and rides in Dallas.
Winter (December-February) – Cool, with occasional snow in the north. The Houstonian Hotel (Houston) – A cozy and elegant winter retreat. Visit the San Antonio River Walk – See beautiful holiday lights and decorations.


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