Unmissable Things to Do in Texas for Every Traveler

01 Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park combines the Texas desert with stunning mountains. It's no wonder more than 500,000 visitors make their way through it every year. Camping enthusiasts love this spot for its unparalleled views and range of wildlife. You can also opt to stay at the Chisos Mountains Lodge, which sits at an elevation of 5,400 feet. Don't forget to pick up a gift or some camping equipment. Keep an eye out for multiple species of birds and more than 1,200 species of plants while exploring Big Bend National Park. Book a canoe tour down the Rio Grande, such as with Big Bend River Tours, if you want a different vantage point.  

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02 The Alamo

Remember the Alamo in San Antonio? This well-preserved fortress compound and mission stands as a historic monument to the 1836 battle. Although The Battle of the Alamo was a loss for Texas, it spurred inspiration in Texans and led to the ultimate defeat of the Mexican army. Stop by the living history encampment for a realistic look at a time long ago, take a guided or self-guided tour, and view the exhibits. Entrance to the Alamo Church is free, but you need to make a reservation.  

03 The Texas State Capital

They say everything is bigger in Texas. So it won't come as a surprise that this massive, three-story structure is the largest capitol building in the United States. Take a free tour to learn the building's history. Explore galleries, legislative chambers, and historic courtrooms. The building features several areas restored with original or reproduction furniture, artwork, and décor. While you're there, stroll through the beautifully landscaped Capitol grounds, which showcase over 20 monuments.

04 Congress Street Bats

The Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin is home to North America's largest urban bat colony. An estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tail bats hang out here and emerge from under the bridge around dusk to hunt for food. The best months to view the bats are March through November, and the most impressive flights happen on hot August evenings. Visitors can enjoy the view from atop Congress Avenue Bridge and along the Butler Hike and Bike Trail.

05 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo takes place at the NRG Center, and it's a good idea to arrive at the grounds early to check out the livestock and grab a bite. Kids will enjoy the petting zoo, where they can get up close and personal with goats, lambs, and other loveable creatures. There are contests, horse shows, livestock shows, auctions, and more, creating an environment that has something for every attendee. Each night features a different musical act performing for attendees.

06 Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Hikers love this park, which includes many of the highest peaks in Texas and over 80 miles of trails through mountainous terrain and rugged wilderness. Short on time? Make a quick visit to the Pine Springs Visitor Center for the museum and Pinery Nature Trail. Consider camping under night skies at Pine Springs Campground during a longer stay.

07 Sixth Street Music Crawl

Nashville and New Orleans aren't the only cities known for their musical acts. Austin has been dubbed the "Live Music Capital of the World." The best way to experience it is by taking a nighttime stroll down 6th Street. It's an entertainment hub chock-full of restaurants and bars hosting local and popular live music acts on any night. Grab a cocktail at Whistler's while listening to music on the patio, jam out to blues and rock music at Friends Bar, or make your way into one of the many other exciting venues on 6th Street.

08 Space Center Houston

"Houston, we have a problem" isn't a phrase you'll be uttering when you visit the Space Center in Houston. It's a leading science and space learning center containing space artifacts and exhibits and is the gateway to tour the NASA Johnson Space Center. Admission is approximately $25+ for each ticket, but be sure to check online for seasonal deals and memberships.  

09 Galveston Island Beaches

With 32 miles of beautiful shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston Island is a beach lover's paradise. There are festivals and concerts throughout the year and many other exciting local events, including the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival in September and the Galveston Restaurant Week in January. Many of the events give you a chance to try some of the incredible local seafood offerings, so make sure you bring your appetite. From picnics and playgrounds, the beaches of Galveston offer something for all ages and interests.  

10 The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

 

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas, brings history to life. Located in the Dallas County Administration Building, which was previously referred to as the Texas School Book Depository, it was a crime scene for the assassination of President Kennedy. The museum offers a detailed account of that fateful day and the history leading up to it.

 

11 Prada Marfa

Marfa may not hold any records for population or growth, but the small West Texas town is a gem in its own right. Grab a room for the night at one of the multiple hotels, such as Hotel Saint George. No visit is complete without stopping at the Instagram-famous pop art installation known as Prada Marfa.  

12 Marfa Lights

Marfa is also home to a mysterious phenomenon known as the Marfa Lights. Despite the glowing orbs making their first reported appearance in the late 1800s, no one is quite sure why they appear to float in the sky. These strange lights have been described as multicolored and are about the size of a basketball. The sightings are sporadic, so you may or may not be able to see them along the highway.  

13 Waco Mammoth Site

The fossilized remains of 24 Columbian mammoths were found near the Bosque River in Waco in 1978 and the years after. Tiny animals they were not. Each one reportedly weighed approximately 20,000 pounds and could reach a height of about 14 feet. Baylor University is home to some of the mammoths. A climate-controlled shelter shields the site, and now visitors can view the remaining fossils in their original resting place.  

14 Dr. Pepper Museum

The Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco was formerly the building that housed the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company. It was constructed in 1906 to specifically manufacture Dr. Pepper. The "Home of Dr. Pepper" is on the National Register of Historic Places, and visitors can view many exhibits. There's also a gift shop stocked with memorabilia and an old-fashioned soda fountain where visitors can quench their thirst. An Extreme Pepper Experience provides a multitude of perks, including a large Dr. Pepper float, free parking, and a private guided tour of the museum buildings.

15 Cadillac Ranch

If you're looking to get your kicks on Route 66 (as the song goes), look no further than Cadillac Ranch. On this strip of the historic highway, just west of Amarillo, ten brightly graffitied Cadillacs stand in a row, half-buried, nose down in the dirt. Take out your camera because it's a great photo op.

16 San Antonio River Walk

Home to the Spurs, Tex-Mex, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio is iconic. One of the most fantastic elements of this city is the winding river flowing through downtown. The San Antonio River Walk shows off the city's rich culture through its restaurants and decor. Make sure to attend one of the many exciting year-round events, ranging from the Bud Light Mardi Gras River Parade & Celebrations in January to the Rey Feo Superhero River Parade in September to the Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade in October and the Ford Fiesta de Luminarias event in December.  

17 USS Lexington Museum

The colossal USS Lexington is a WWII-era aircraft carrier many now enjoy as a museum. The well-preserved ship, which got to its current location in 1992, is now docked on the shore of Corpus Christi. Take a tour, view the exhibits, participate in an escape room, and test your nerves in a flight simulator. If you want an even more in-depth experience, book an overnight camping adventure.  

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18 Hill Country wine tour

Although California has gotten most of the glory for wineries in the United States, Texas is making a name for itself among wine experts. Combine a wine tour with the beautiful scenery of Texas Hill Country, and you have a great getaway. There are multiple businesses offering tours, including Hill Country Wine Tours LLC. Go during the wildflower season in spring to see fields of beautiful bluebonnets, the state flower of Texas.  

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19 Padre Island National Seashore

Outdoor enthusiasts will love this park with 66 miles of coastline. Bike or hike to revel in the stunning scenery. Enjoy swimming, windsurfing, or snorkeling at the beach, or spend the day kayaking in the Laguna Madre. Visitors can camp year-round at Padre Island National Seashore, but a permit is required.  

20 Texas Eiffel Tower

The 65-foot-tall Texas Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas, was completed in 1993 by a local iron union. In 1999, a giant red cowboy hat was added to give it some Texas flair. Feel free to bring your pet along to view the attraction and take some photos.  

21 Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas is a must-visit for thrill-seekers and fun-lovers. Covering a sprawling 212 acres, the amusement park is home to more than a dozen roller coasters, each offering a unique experience. From the heart-stopping drops of the Titan to the dizzying spins of the Pandemonium, there's a ride for every daredevil, but it's not all about the thrills. Six Flags also offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the Bugs Bunny Boomtown.  

22 San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Step back in time at the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. As the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, it offers a unique glimpse into the state's colonial past. The park is home to four mission ruins, but they're not all in one area. Each is separated by 2 - 3 miles between them. Learn about the mission's history through informative displays and partake in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, bird watching, and photography.  

23 Kemah Boardwalk

Nestled on the shores of Galveston Bay, the Kemah Boardwalk is a hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping. It exudes a nostalgic, carnival-like atmosphere, complete with a double-decker carousel, a giant Ferris wheel, and a boardwalk tower offering stunning views over the water. For the adventurous, there's the Boardwalk Beast speedboat ride and Pharaoh's Fury. Dining options range from casual establishments to upscale waterfront restaurants, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate.  

24 Houston Zoo

With over 6,000 animals spanning 55 acres, the Houston Zoo is a wildlife lover's paradise. The African Forest exhibit is a standout, housing an array of animals from chimpanzees to red river hogs. Other highlights include bird habitats, the Bug House, and the immersive Galapagos Islands exhibit. The zoo also offers a variety of animal encounters, including with charming anteaters, massive elephants, and plant-munching Galápagos tortoises.  

25 SeaWorld San Antonio

Combining marine life exhibits with exhilarating rides, SeaWorld San Antonio offers a blend of education and entertainment. The park's water-themed attractions include the Texas Stingray wooden coaster, the Wave Breaker roller coaster, and the gravity-defying Steel Eel. Animal experiences provide unforgettable moments, while the park's various shows offer fun for the whole family.  

26 National Museum of the Pacific War

Located in the charming town of Fredericksburg, the National Museum of the Pacific War pays tribute to those who served in the Pacific War during World War II. The museum's interactive exhibits bring history to life, allowing visitors to step into the shoes of the soldiers who fought in the war. Highlights include the George H.W. Bush Gallery, the Japanese Garden of Peace, and the Pacific Combat Zone, a realistic re-creation of a Pacific island battlefield.  

27 Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

A verdant oasis in the heart of the city, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers. Spanning 66 acres on the shores of White Rock Lake, the garden is a visual feast of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and stunning landscapes. Each of the garden's 19 named areas offers an exquisite horticultural experience, from the vibrant displays of the Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden to the tranquil beauty of the Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill. Many year-round events add to the garden's appeal.    

28 Dallas Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts will be in their element at the Dallas Museum of Art. As one of the largest art museums in the United States, it boasts a diverse collection of over 25,000 works spanning thousands of years. Some of its extensive holdings include everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art installations. Highlights include the John R. Young Collection, the Wendy and Emery Reves Collection, and the John Lunsford Collection. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and events, making art accessible to all.  

29 Perot Museum of Nature and Science

A world of discovery awaits at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This state-of-the-art museum offers a wealth of interactive exhibits designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages. Explore the mysteries of the universe in the Expanding Universe Hall, come face-to-face with prehistoric creatures in the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, or delve into the wonders of the human body in the Being Human Hall. The museum's cutting-edge 3D theater and hands-on learning labs add to the fun.  

30 Natural Bridge Caverns

Discover the underground wonders of Texas at the Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest known commercial caverns in Texas. Its name is derived from its 60-foot limestone bridge. The caverns feature several unique speleothems and other geological features. For an adrenaline rush, check out the 60-foot-high Twisted Trails Zip Rail and Ropes Course, which consists of challenges ranging from 685 feet of suspended zip rails track to vertical rope ladders.  

31 Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

Step back in time at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Today, it's a part of history that's been wonderfully preserved. Marvel at the wooden corrals and get excited about the twice-daily longhorn cattle drive. Every inch of the Stockyards tells the true history of Texas's famous livestock industry.