The second-largest state in the US, Texas is brimming with countless possibilities for fun and adventure.
Geographically and culturally diverse, the state offers a wealth of unique attractions and things to do. From cities to coastal beaches, mountains, and deserts, the likelihood of vacationing in Texas is vast. Metropolitan centers, like Houston, Austin, and Dallas, are an interesting contrast to the West Texas cities, like Amarillo or Lubbock, but each has its own character and reason for visiting. San Antonio, famous for the Alamo and the River Walk, and the nearby Hill Country should also be on travelers' itineraries.
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1. San Antonio's River Walk
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 ambiance of the area is on a leisurely cruise on a riverboat. These run all the time and range from standard sightseeing trips to dinner cruises.
2. The Alamo
Alamo is one of the most important historical places in America. Part of a mission station set up in 1718, it was built by Franciscans in 1744 and by 1836, was converted into a fortress.
It became famous during the Texas Revolution, when a small force, including Davie Crockett and James Bowie, defended themselves against an extremely overwhelming Mexican army of about 3,000 strong troops. While the defeat saw all 187 defenders die, the cry "Remember Alamo!" Gather the state to eventually surpass the Mexicans.
Today, you can visit this landmark to see its restored buildings and the cenotaph commemorating the fallen Texans. 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 Historical Park and connected by the Mission Trail.
3. Space Center Houston
Just 30 minutes from downtown Houston, Space Center Houston is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas. This is a great place to learn about space exploration, upcoming missions, the latest NASA projects and maybe even meet an astronaut.
Space Center Houston is also home to Johnson Space Center and Mission Control, which can be visited on a tour.
Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the entire complex, including a copy of a space shuttle mounted on an aircraft carrier. Visitors can walk inside the shuttle and the carrier. You can also walk inside a replica of America's first space station, Skylab. Other highlights include seeing rockets and touching a rock from the moon and Mars.
The center provides a fascinating insight into the operations of the world's largest space program, with countless exhibits, as well as films, models, astronaut-related artifacts, and displays on the experiments and developments at NASA.
4. Big Bend National Park
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.
5. Padre Island National Seashore
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 encompasses over 130,000 acres of beach land, sand dunes, and grassy habitats and is home to rare sea turtles and countless migratory birds. it became this dog's paradise (350 different species visit this stop on the Flyway center migration route).
Malaquite Visitor Center is the best place to start your visit to this beautiful coastal area of the Gulf of Mexico. It provides plenty of information, as well as assistance for those with mobility issues, including specially adapted beach wheelchairs.
6. The Texas State Capitol in Austin
The Texas State Capitol, built-in 1888, is considered one of the finest state legislatures in the US. In Austin's city center and now National Historic Site, it certainly impresses with its size, 308 feet high.
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, cross the Ann W. Richards Boulevard Bridge for a chance to witness the sight of one million free-flowing Mexican tail bats coming and going from the perch at the foot of the bridge.
7. The Sixth Floor Museum, Dallas
It was from the sixth floor of the Texas Learning Book Depository Center in Dallas, the fatal shot that killed President John F. Kennedy. Currently home to the 6th Floor Museum, this tall red brick building provides a detailed account of the assassination, as well as Kennedy's legacy.
Highlights include accounts of his presidential campaign and presidential term, all of which are supported by historical scenes, photographs, and artifacts.
8. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
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 peak of Guadalupe, the highest elevation in Texas. It is also very popular with hiking thanks to its more than 80 miles of trails through majestic forest canyons and dense streams.
Be sure to visit the visitor center in Pine Springs for park information, including details on hiking and biking trails.
9. The Fort Worth Stockyards
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The Stockyards National Historic District remains Fort Worth's biggest draw. Founded in 1866, the area derives its name from the cattle industry, as millions of animals are rested, sorted or transported to other locations throughout the state.
The last surviving facility of its kind in the US, these historic warehouses have been turned into a splendid attraction that includes all the fun things to see, including rodeos, concerts, and shows. theatrical and Western-themed shopping. Highlights include cattle driving demonstrations and an opportunity to quieten up for some trail rides.
Be sure to check out the Stockyard Visitor Center and Stockyard Museum, which both provide information regarding current events as well as the history of this Fort Worth amusement park.
10. Galveston's Beaches & Strand Historic District
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.
Galveston is less than an hour's drive from Houston and only about 45 minutes from Space Center Houston.
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