Texas Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit & Things to Do

Texas is a state that embodies bold spirit, big landscapes, and even bigger adventures. Whether you're two-stepping in Austin, eating brisket in Lockhart, or hiking through the canyons of Big Bend, the Lone Star State offers endless opportunities to explore its diverse culture and terrain. This Texas travel guide brings together the must-visit cities, natural wonders, and travel tips to help you plan the ultimate Texas adventure.

Where is Texas?

πŸ“ Location: South-central United States
πŸŒ† Major Cities: Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, El Paso
πŸŒ„ Bordering States: New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana
πŸ”— Visit Texas Tourism

Best Time to Visit Texas

🌸 Spring (March-May) – Perfect for wildflowers, especially bluebonnets and mild temperatures.
β˜€οΈ Summer (June-August) – Hot but packed with festivals, lake trips, and beach visits.
πŸ‚ Fall (September-November) – Great for football, festivals, and state fair fun.
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Mild winters ideal for hiking and city sightseeing.

 

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Top Attractions & Destinations in Texas

1. Austin – Live Music Capital of the World

Known for its creativity, music scene, and food truck culture, Austin offers vibrant energy year-round.
🎢 Best Things to Do in Austin:
  • Watch live music on Sixth Street
  • Paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake
  • Tour the Texas State Capitol
    πŸ“ Location: Central Texas
    πŸ”—Β Visit Austin

2. San Antonio – Culture & History

A city where Spanish heritage, modern art, and riverfront charm come together.
🏰 Top Attractions in San Antonio:
  • Tour the Alamo and Mission Trail
  • Walk the San Antonio River Walk
  • Explore the Pearl District for dining and shopping
    πŸ“ Location: South-central Texas
    πŸ”—Β Visit San Antonio

3. Big Bend National Park – Desert Landscapes & Starry Skies

A remote paradise for hiking, stargazing, and solitude in the Chihuahuan Desert.
🏞️ Best Things to Do in Big Bend:
  • Hike Santa Elena Canyon or Lost Mine Trail
  • Soak in the Hot Springs along the Rio Grande
  • Visit the McDonald Observatory nearby
    πŸ“ Location: West Texas
    πŸ”—Β Visit Big Bend

4. Houston – Museums & Multicultural Flavors

Texas’s largest city offers world-class art, science, and global cuisine.
πŸ›°οΈ Things to Do in Houston:
  • Explore the Space Center Houston
  • Visit the Houston Museum District
  • Eat your way through Chinatown and The Heights
    πŸ“ Location: Southeastern Texas
    πŸ”—Β Visit Houston

5. Dallas & Fort Worth – Cowboys & Culture

Twin cities with a shared metro area but distinct vibesβ€”Dallas is sleek and urban, Fort Worth is Western and soulful.
🀠 Top Things to Do in Dallas–Fort Worth:
  • Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards
  • Tour the Sixth Floor Museum (JFK)
  • Catch a game or concert at AT&T Stadium
    πŸ“ Location: North Texas
    πŸ”—Β Visit DallasΒ |Β Visit Fort Worth

Best Outdoor Adventures in Texas

  • πŸ›Ά Kayak the Rio Grande in Big Bend
  • πŸšΆβ€β™‚οΈ Hike Enchanted Rock near Fredericksburg
  • πŸ–οΈ Relax on South Padre Island beaches
  • 🏜️ Explore Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Where to Stay in Texas

🏨 Iconic Hotels & Urban Comforts:

  • Hotel Emma (San Antonio) – Historic brewery-turned-boutique hotel
  • The Driskill (Austin) – Texas-style luxury in a landmark building

πŸ•οΈ Best Cabins & Campgrounds:

  • Chisos Mountains Lodge (Big Bend) – Only lodging inside the national park
  • Garner State Park (Concan) – Riverside camping and scenic hill country trails

Tips for Visiting Texas

βœ… Be prepared for long drives – Texas is huge!
βœ… Hydrate – summers can be extremely hot
βœ… Try the brisket – central Texas barbecue is world-famous
βœ… Check road conditions if heading to remote parks like Big Bend

Nearby Travel Destinations

  • New Mexico – Visit White Sands National Park or Santa Fe
  • Oklahoma – Explore Route 66 and Turner Falls
  • Louisiana – Discover New Orleans or Cajun Country

Final Thoughts

Texas is a land of contrasts and charisma, where you can experience everything from cosmopolitan city life to stargazing in total solitude. Whether you're exploring Tex-Mex flavors in San Antonio, dancing to live bands in Austin, or hiking canyons in the desert, Texas promises an unforgettable journey.
For more Southern and Southwest inspiration, check out our New Mexico Travel Guide and Louisiana Travel Guide.
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