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Texas stands as a place of different attractions and cultures. Various activities include exploring beautiful cities, historic spots, expansive natural landscapes, and quirky small towns. Texas is known for its cowboy culture and live music, which tells you there is something for everyone. Exploring the colourful cities of Austin or Dallas, appreciating natural beauty at Big Bend National Park, or diving back into some history at The Alamo will leave you with memories in Texas for a lifetime. Let’s see some of the places to visit in Texas which will make your trip memorable.
9 Famous Places To Visit In Texas
You can visit many famous places in Texas, from the island to the town museum. Below are the nine places to visit in Texas.
1. The Alamo, San Antonio
Photo: Joshua J. Cotten / Pexels
One of the most historic and legendary structures in Texas, the Alamo is a mission of the 18th century where in 1836 during the Texas Revolution, the famous siege occurred. There are some of its buildings open to the public for tours, but the interactive exhibits help bring the past to life. The surrounding gardens add to the spirit by providing a quiet space for reflection. The Alamo is in downtown San Antonio and can be easily paired with a walk along River Walk. It is one of the best places to visit in Texas.
Top Attractions: The Chapel, Long Barracks Museum
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
2. Big Bend National Park
Photo: Katie Polansky / Unsplash
With over 800,000 acres of captivating land, Big Bend National Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Situated along the banks of the Rio Grande, the park has dramatic canyons, rugged mountains, and sprawling desert landscapes. Things to do in this wilderness include hiking, stargazing, birdwatching, and kayaking. One must not miss hiking the scenic Santa Elena Canyon Trail with breathtaking views. With its relative isolation, Big Bend is a good choice to completely unplug, unwind, and get back to nature.
Top Attractions: Santa Elena Canyon, The International Dark Sky Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
3. The Houston Museum District
Photo: Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons
A cultural jewel comprising 19 world-class institutions within close juxtaposition, Houston’s Museum District attracts those more inclined to art and cultural studies. The Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, and the Children’s Museum are a few notable places. From ancient artefacts to contemporary art to interactive exhibits in science, there’s something for everyone on this trail. The district also houses Hermann Park, a lush green space where one can refresh between visits to museums.
Top Attractions: Houston Museum of Natual Science, Museum of Fine Arts
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Photo: Samuel Bauman / Unsplash
Palo Duro Canyon is often termed the “Grand Canyon of Texas”. It is the second-largest canyon in the United States. This scenic outdoor wonder is characterised by spectacular vistas of multi-hued rock formations and towering cliffs. You can enjoy delightful activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding. You should not miss a breathtaking 6-mile hike on the Lighthouse Trail, which leads to an iconic rock formation resembling a lighthouse. In summer, one can enjoy the outdoor musical performance of “Texas,” celebrating the state’s history.
Top Attractions: Lighthouse Trail, Summer Outdoor Music
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
5. Dallas Arts District
Photo: Gattacal / Wikimedia Commons
The Dallas Arts District is the cultural and creative heart, housing top-ranked art museums, theatres, and performing arts venues in the United States. The collections at the Dallas Museum of Art and Nasher Sculpture Center are inspired, while world-class performances are held at the Meyerson Symphony Center. The public art installations and the continuum of contemporary galleries add to the dynamic feel of the district. You can also have gourmet dining and picturesque cafes, making it a perfect spot for art lovers and culinary specialists.
Top Attractions: Nasher Sculpture Centre, Dallas Museum of Art
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
6. South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a tropical dream along Texas’ Gulf Coast, famous for its wonderful beaches and exotic wildlife. Whether you are in a family, couple, or solo category, the island has a list of activities. Catch a thrilling dolphin-watching tour or kiteboarding, or join an eclectic eco-tour. Nature lovers will find the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center to be quite entertaining, while thrill seekers will find themselves getting wet and wild jet skiing or parasailing.
Top Attractions: Dolphin watching, South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
7. Fort Worth Stockyards
Photo: Mark Fisher / Wikimedia Commons
In between the cowboy culture of Texas lies a European-style district. This historic district features wooden sidewalks, cattle drives, and saloons that invoke the Old West. The daily cattle drive is a great departmental watch, while facilities such as the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame are dizzyingly attractive as a focus of attraction or shopping destination for Western-themed souvenirs. For a more authentic cowboy experience, try to catch the Stockyards Championship Rodeo. Several wonderful steakhouses and venues for live music are on hand, making it a fun place to spend a full day.
Top Attractions: Daily Cattle Drive, Stockyards Championship Rodeo
Ideal Trip Duration: 4-6 hours
8. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
With the highest four peaks in Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is certainly on the premise of the hikers’ dream. Rugged trails are present in this park, and they are the soul of the park. The Guadalupe Peak is a strenuous hike but offers an amazing view of ‘The Top of Texas’. McKittrick Canyon showcases magnificent autumnal greenery and verdant floral splendour. While being a favourite for nature lovers and adventure-seeking at heart, the park is rich in geological and fossil history.
Top Attractions: Guadalupe Peak, McKittrick Canyon
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
9. San Antonio River Walk
Photo: Larry D. Moore / Wikimedia Commons
San Antonio River Walk is a beautifully picturesque urban retreat that is carefree and has commercial establishments, restaurants, and landmarks of historic importance. You can enjoy a casual stroll alongside the river or a guided boat tour that bears the city’s rich history. Notable sights are the Arneson River Theater and the multi-coloured umbrellas of the dining places along the River Walk. During the Merry Christmas season, the River Walk is resplendent with the sparkle of festive lights, creating a charm of its own.
Top Attractions: Boat tours, Riverside dining
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Texas is endowed with unrivalled variety, bringing together history, culture, and natural beauty. From the historical relevance of The Alamo to Austin’s vibrant live music scene and the serene landscape appeal of Big Bend, the state has everything for everyone. Plan your trip to the best places to visit in Texas with TripXL and be spellbound by the endless offerings the city has to offer.
