We don’t intend to boast here (OK, maybe just a little bit), but mind you, there’s no denying that Texas is a stunning state and no Texan can deny that. After all, it has such staggering vast lands that you can’t possibly visit every nook and corner in your entire lifetime.
Now, don’t you worry a tad because this short guide curates a list of some of Lone Star State’s most jaw-dropping destinations? Make sure you add them to your bucket list to have an unforgettable Texas adventure worth cherishing for life!
1. Visit Austin for Live Music at Its Finest
Austin, and its strategic location right in the heart of the state, undeniably reverberates with a distinctive vibe, creativity, and loads of energy.
The city is called the Live Music Capital of the World for a reason. It also takes great pride in its vibrant music scene with more than 250 venues for live music.
You can be sure that there is a genre for every taste and preference. There won’t be any issues if you’re into indie and country or you prefer to chill with some rock and blues.
But more than music, the city also has so many outdoor activities waiting for guests, such as biking, hiding, and even paddleboarding along the Lady Bird Lake.
The gastronomic scene of the city is also as extraordinary as its music. You can experience the joy of enjoying a plethora of gastronomic experiences in BBQ joints, food trucks, and more upscale dining spots that serve the most mouthwatering dishes you can ever imagine.
2. Wander in Wilderness at the Big Bend National Park
The Big Bend National Park is a real gem for all outdoor buffs and nature aficionados. This expansive area of sheer wilderness is perched along the Rio Grande. It consists of rugged mountains, winding river canyons, and gorgeous desert landscapes.
Visitors can paddle through the secluded waterways, go for scenic hikes on the designated trails, or just take in the panoramic views. The Big Bend is a true wildlife sanctuary that offers opportunities to be up close and personal with javelinas, desert bighorn sheep, and more than 450 bird species.
3. Bask in Southern Charm in the Big Glamorous City of Dallas
Dallas exudes a one-of-a-kind combination of Southern charm and the glamour of a big city so you can’t blame travelers who are captivated by it. The iconic skyline of the city is dotted with several architectural marvels including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Reunion Tower.
History fans might want to check out the Sixth Floor Museum to learn more about President John F. Kennedy and his legacy. If you’re into art, you will surely love browsing the Dallas Museum of Art with its celebrated collections.
To get a whiff of the Old West, you better head over to nearby Fort Worth’s Stockyards where rodeos and cattle drives pay homage to the cowboy heritage of Texas.
4. Mark the Beginning of the West at Fort Worth
Fort Worth located right at the center of North Texas embraces and showcases its cowboy roots while letting its visitors enjoy modern amenities amidst its thriving cultural scene.
One place you shouldn’t miss visiting is none other than the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District where you can experience the real thrill of cattle drive in real life or go to the Cowtown Coliseum to watch rodeo events.
To get your dose of culture, world-class museums have made a home in the Cultural District, including the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and the Kimbell Art Museum.
The downtown area of the city, on the other hand, offers an eclectic selection of entertainment venues, shops, and restaurants so you can be sure that there is always something to do, see, and experience while you’re there.
5. Escape to the Coast at Galveston
Galveston perched on the Gulf Coast lures visitors with its historic charm, laidback atmosphere, and sandy beaches. Go for a relaxing walk along the Strand Historic District lined with quaint shops and architectural marvels from the Victorian era. Or better yet, you can just soak up the lovely sun on the pristine beaches of the island.
You and your family are also guaranteed to fall in love with top attractions such as the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier which features games and amusement rides. History buffs can also explore other famous landmarks such as the Bryan Museum and the Moody Mansion that showcase the rich heritage of the island.
6. Indulge in Small-Town Charm and Rolling Hills in Hill Country
If the city’s hustle and bustle have become too much to handle, you might want to go for a quick escape to the Texas Hill Country and enjoy its scenic beauty. The scenic region is known for its clear rivers, rolling hills, and idyllic small towns including Gruene and Fredericksburg.
While there, don’t miss the chance to sample the local vineyards’ award-winning wines, explore historic German settlements, or just relax and bask in the countryside’s serenity.
Plenty of outdoor activities are also waiting for you here, including biking, hiking, and tubing along the Guadalupe River.
Experience Innovative Diversity in Houston
Houston, Texas’s biggest city, is a dynamic metropolis acclaimed for its world-class attractions, innovation, and diversity.
For starters, there is the Space Center Houston where you can get an interesting glimpse into the history of space exploration in the USA. There is also the Museum District that serves as the home to an impressive selection of cultural institutions such as the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the of Fine Arts.
Food lovers will surely fall in love with the culinary scene of Houston which is the perfect reflection of the multicultural fabric of the city. You won’t run out of sumptuous dining options that can satisfy different taste buds, including international fares and of course, the undeniable authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
Wrapping It Up
So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of Texas. And if you feel like you need some help in choosing the best destinations to visit first, Bradley Schnickel will be more than happy to help you through his website OceanBeachTravel.com.