Discover the best places to visit in Texas, from iconic landmarks like the Alamo and Space Center Houston to natural wonders like Big Bend and Palo Duro Canyon.
Texas has endless outdoor adventures, museums, harming towns and hidden gems for your next unforgettable vacation.
Here are 30 places that capture the essence of what makes Texas such an incredible state to explore.
Top Texas Travel Destinations
Big Bend National Park
Located in West Texas, Big Bend National Park spans over 800,000 acres offering awe-inspiring views of the Chicos Mountains and the Rio Grande.
Hiking trails such as the Lost Mine Trail and Emory Peak cater to all skill levels, while the river offers kayaking and canoeing.
The park is also famous for its wildlife, including javelinas, roadrunners, and mountain lions. It’s a stargazer’s paradise, thanks to some of the darkest skies in the country. This needs to be added to your Texas Travel Bucket List!
San Antonio River Walk
The River Walk in San Antonio is a winding network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with bars, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s blend of Mexican and Texan cultures.
You can also take a boat tour for a unique perspective of the area, and don’t forget to visit The Alamo, just a short walk away, for a deep dive into Texas history.
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Houston Museum District
Houston is home to one of the most impressive museum collections in the country, all conveniently located within a compact district.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston are just a few examples.
This area also includes the Houston Zoo and Hermann Park, making it perfect for a full day of exploration.
Padre Island National Seashore
The Padre Island National Seashore is a long, undeveloped barrier island stretching over 70 miles along the Gulf Coast. It’s a protected environment where visitors can observe nesting sea turtles or take part in birdwatching.
The island is a top destination for fishing, water sports and it’s sandy beaches.
Austin’s Live Music Scene
Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers hundreds of live music venues that showcase everything from rock and country to blues and jazz.
Major festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits attract international acts, but you can also find up-and-coming artists in smaller, more intimate venues like The Continental Club.
The Texas State Capitol in Austin
Standing at 308 feet tall, the Texas State Capitol in Austin is taller than the U.S. Capitol. Visitors can take guided or self-guided tours to learn about Texas history and politics while admiring the stunning architecture and grounds.
The surrounding Capitol grounds feature monuments to historical figures and events, and has several restaurants and coffee shops in the area.
Barton Springs Pool
Fed by natural springs, Barton Springs Pool in Austin maintains a year-round temperature of 68-70°F, making it a refreshing dip even in the hot Texas summer.
Surrounded by lush greenery in Zilker Park, the pool is a local favorite for swimmers and those wanting to experience a true Texas adventure. Austin is a perfect destination for any Texas road trip.
Dallas Arts District
At 68 acres, the Dallas Arts District is the largest urban arts district in the country. It features major institutions such as the Dallas Museum of Art, which houses over 24,000 works spanning 5,000 years of history, and the Nasher Sculpture Center, known for its incredible collection of modern and contemporary sculptures.
The district also offers performing arts at the Winspear Opera House and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Dallas had endless of activities. From amazing museums, rooftop restaurants, hotels to outdoor adventures, making it a great weekend destinations.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Located in far West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,749 feet.
This remote and rugged park is a hiker’s dream, offering trails such as the challenging Guadalupe Peak Trail and the scenic McKittrick Canyon, which is especially stunning in the fall when the leaves change colors. The park is also known for its diverse ecosystems and limestone rock formations.
Fort Worth Stockyards
For a true taste of Texas cowboy culture, the Fort Worth Stockyards can’t be beaten. This historic district offers daily cattle drives, rodeo events, and Western-themed shopping.
You can also visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame or enjoy a steak at the legendary Cattlemen’s Steakhouse. Don’t miss Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk, for live country music and dancing.
And if you really want to experience Cowtown, book a room at Hotel Drover for a luxury stay in the heart of the Stockyards.
Space Center Houston
A gateway to the stars, Space Center Houston is the visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that detail space exploration, from the Apollo missions to Mars exploration.
Don’t miss the Tram Tour, which takes visitors behind the scenes to Mission Control and astronaut training facilities.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Located near Fredericksburg, Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above the surrounding Hill Country.
Visitors can hike to the summit for panoramic views, explore over 11 miles of trails, or even try their hand at rock climbing. Enchanted Rock is also a Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing at night.
Galveston Island
Galveston Island offers a mix of historic charm and coastal fun. Explore the beautiful Strand Historic District, home to Victorian architecture, unique shops, and restaurants.
Families will love visiting Moody Gardens, an educational destination with pyramids housing rainforests and aquariums, as well as the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for amusement park rides over the Gulf.
Galveston is a great summer vacation destination and has plenty of free things to do on the island.
Texas Hill Country Wineries
The Texas Hill Country is home to over 50 wineries, making it the second-largest wine-producing region in the U.S. behind Napa Valley.
Take a scenic drive along the Texas 290 Wine Trail to visit wineries such as Becker Vineyards and Grape Creek Vineyards, where you can enjoy wine tastings and tours.
The rolling hills and charming small towns make for a peaceful weekend getaway.
South Padre Island
A haven for water sports and beachgoers, South Padre Island offers activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and dolphin watching.
The island is also a major spot for spring break, but visitors can enjoy year-round attractions like the Sea Turtle Inc. rescue center and eco-tourism adventures in the nearby Laguna Madre.
Palo Duro Canyon
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the U.S., offering stunning red rock formations and hiking trails.
Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and even outdoor musicals like TEXAS during the summer, set against the backdrop of the canyon.
Fredericksburg
A blend of German heritage and Texas charm, Fredericksburg offers boutique shopping, wineries, and historic landmarks.
Be sure to visit the Pioneer Museum to learn about the area’s early settlers, or hike Enchanted Rock for outdoor adventure.
Waco’s Magnolia Market
Fans of HGTV’s Fixer Upper flock to Magnolia Market, a shopping and lifestyle destination created by Chip and Joanna Gaines. Located at the historic Silos, Magnolia Market offers home goods, a bakery, food trucks, and family-friendly lawns.
It’s also just a short drive from the Dr. Pepper Museum and Cameron Park Zoo, making it a great day trip destination.
Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the Texas State Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the country. Visitors can learn about marine life native to the Gulf, interact with dolphins at the Dolphin Bay, or explore exhibits featuring jellyfish, sharks, and coral reefs.
The aquarium also has a Wildlife Rescue Center, where you can see rehabilitated sea turtles and birds.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Nestled on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum is a 66-acre garden that features seasonal displays, such as the Autumn at the Arboretum pumpkin village and the 12 Days of Christmas holiday exhibit. The arboretum also offers family-friendly events,
The Alamo
One of the most significant historical landmarks in Texas, The Alamo was the site of a pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution.
Visitors can explore the preserved mission, learn about the Battle of the Alamo in the onsite museum, and walk the beautiful gardens. It’s a solemn and powerful reminder of the state’s fight for independence.
Caverns of Sonora
Considered one of the most beautiful show caves in the world, the Caverns of Sonora feature a stunning array of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations.
Guided tours take visitors through narrow passages filled with dazzling geological wonders, including the Butterfly Formation, a unique mineral formation that resembles butterfly wings.
Marfa
The small desert town of Marfa has gained international fame for its modern art scene, especially Donald Judd’s Chinati Foundation, which features large-scale installations.
Visitors also come to see the mysterious Marfa Lights, unexplained orbs of light that appear on the horizon. The town offers quirky art galleries, boutiques, and a funky atmosphere.
Fort Davis
Home to one of the best-preserved frontier military posts in the U.S., Fort Davis allows visitors to step back in time and experience life on a 19th-century army fort.
Located near the Davis Mountains, Fort Davis offers beautiful hikes, including the Skyline Drive Trail. Nearby is the McDonald Observatory, perfect for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts.
Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium offers more than just marine life. It features animals from the rainforest, including sloths, birds, and reptiles. The aquarium is known for its diverse exhibits, like the Mayan Temple, housing jaguars and exotic birds, and the Orinoco Rainforest, filled with manatees and giant river otters.
Lake Travis
A short drive from Austin, Lake Travis is a hotspot for boating, swimming, and zip-lining. The lake is lined with waterfront restaurants and bars, offering incredible sunset views.
You can also enjoy the Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures, a floating water park with obstacle courses and water sports.
Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington
Texas’ original theme park, Six Flags Over Texas, offers thrill rides like The Texas Giant roller coaster, water attractions, and live shows.
For the month of October, be prepared to get spooked at Fright Night. During the holiday season, the park transforms into Holiday in the Park, with festive light displays and seasonal entertainment.
McDonald Observatory
Located in the Davis Mountains, the McDonald Observatory offers visitors the chance to gaze at the night sky through giant telescopes.
The observatory hosts Star Parties, where experts guide you through the constellations. It’s one of the best spots for stargazing in Texas thanks to minimal light pollution.
Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake is one of the few naturally occurring lakes in Texas, known for its eerie beauty and hauntingly scenic cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
Canoeing and kayaking through its maze-like bayous is the best way to experience the lake’s serene atmosphere. The area is also a prime spot for fishing, wildlife watching, and birding.
Gruene
Gruene is a historic town near New Braunfels is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys live music and dancing. Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, has hosted legendary musicians like Willie Nelson and George Strait.
After a show, explore the town’s antique shops, grab a bite at the Gristmill River Restaurant, or take a tubing trip down the Guadalupe River.
Taking weekend trips to unique and fun destinations around Texas with my family is one of the main reasons I created this blog. Head to the about us page to find out more about me and the blog!
