So the saying goes; everything is bigger in Texas. The same should go for your adventures. If you plan on making your way to the Lone Star State this summer, you are in luck because the list is nearly endless when it comes to some of the best things to do in Texas. In case you haven’t gotten your itinerary all planned out yet, don't fret.
Here Are Some of the Best Places to Visit in Texas
1. Austin, Texas
You haven't experienced Texas until you’ve made your way to Austin, Texas. Austin is easily voted as one of the best places to visit in Texas. This comes as no surprise because it’s really is one of the coolest places to visit in Texas. From the lively city lights to the authentic southern cuisine, you are sure to find a little something for everyone.
While you are down there, be sure to check out some of the natural parks that are revered as some of the top attractions in Texas. One such natural park is the Barton Springs Pool. If exploring nature is not so much your thing, then music might be. Austin is described as one of the best places to visit in Texas because of the overwhelming amount of live music. In fact, this city adds to the top attractions in Texas because it boasts more live music venues per capita than anywhere else in America. This city is sure to offer something for everyone in your travel group. After all, the eclectic and eccentric vibe is the reason Austinians have adopted the city’s catchphrase, “Keep Austin Weird.”
2. Hamilton Pool
While you are in Austin, make it a point to go out on a day trip to the Hamilton Pool Preserve. This protected park is perfect if you are looking to get away from the hot Texan heat. The fresh springs and crystal-clear waters make the Hamilton Pool Preserve one of the best attractions and rightly so. If you do plan on visiting this beautiful attraction, just be sure to secure your permit first. All visors must have a permit to enter. And be sure to check out hours and weather-related notices before you head out here. And of course, don’t forget the food. Be sure to pack a hearty lunch and snack. And of course plenty of bottles of water for hydration.
3. San Antonio, Texas
Another one of the best places to visit in Texas is San Antonio. San Antonio’s historic past is a big plus with all the history buffs. Pay a visit to the Alamo – of the main tourist attractions in Texas – and relive the past. Once you have taken your time to “Remember The Alamo”, you can head on downtown to explore some of the coolest places in Texas. Take a stroll through the River Walk or grab a bite to eat by the water.
After that, you might want to do some sightseeing in Texas by visiting some of the town’s local museums. If you are feeling adventurous, you might even want to reserve a day for one of the cities family friendly theme parks. Whatever you are in the mood for, one thing is certain. San Antonio is one of the coolest cities to visit in Texas. So be sure to keep this city on your list the next time you make your way down south.
4. Houston, Texas
If you love barbeque, then Houston Texas is for you. This bustling town is one of the best places to visit in Texas if you want to get your grub on. It’s no question why Houston is one of the best cities inTexas. The city is a microcosm of the nation’s blooming culture. There are so many great attractions in this iconic town.
You can start your visit in Texas by exploring one of the many museums the city has to offer. One of the top tourist attractions in Texas is the Johnson Space Center. If you are in the mood for something a little funkier, then you may want to stop by the unique Art Car Museum. And of course, while you are in Houston, be sure to take advantage of this next tourist attraction in Texas: The Houston Zoo. Go out and see amazing creatures like tropical birds, giraffes, and underwater wonders. The 55 acre Houston Zoo has a great mix of fun and educational activities. So you are sure to find a little something for everyone in the family.
5. Dallas, Texas
When you think of Texas, the quintessential town of Dallas is likely to pop into your brain. Dallas is easily one of the best cities to visit in Texas because of its Texan charm. If you really want to get into the heart of Texas, then this is the town for you. Start off your trip here by taking some time to witness a cattle drive and cowboys with lassos. While you are down here, besure to get yourself a pair of cowboy boots so you can really blend in. Of course, your trip wouldn’t be complete until you caught a football. Take part in one of the top attractions in Texas by grabbing tickets to a Dallas Cowboys football game.
After that, you can stroll through the town and visit on of the many museums the city has to offer. If you are anything close to a history buff, then Dealey Plaza might be worth a stop. Walk through the plaza and relive the historic moment where JFK was shot. Dallas – Fort Worth, Texas is easily one of the best places to visit in Texas. When you do come down here be sure to bring your camera with you. There are plenty of memories to capture in one the most famous places in Texas.
6. Irving, Texas
This hidden town may not be as bustling as some of the bigger cities in Texas. But this modest city has quite a bit going for it. While you are in Dallas – Fort Worth, it may be worth your time to make a day trip into Irving. There are plenty of museums here to peak your interest. And for all the business fanatics, you can visit some of the nations most prominent companies because many of them keep their headquarters here. If you are a photographer, then this little town is perfect to sneak in a photo shoot. When bluebonnet flowers start to bloom in Irving, its a breathtaking site that makes this town one of the best places to visit in texas.
7. South Padre Island, Texas
Escape the heat of the hot summer sun by making your way to this next best city to visit in Texas. There are so many fun thingsto do in Texas, and a majority of those things can be found in South Padre Island. The 34 miles of calm beaches is one of thebest attraction in Texas for anyone who is looking to get away. So be sure to dip your toes into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico while you are there.
If you are traveling with family, then you are sure to love this town. The affordable lifestyle makes it one of the best places to visit in Texas. If you are a springbreaker that is looking to have some fun. Then join some of the other thousands of beach goers that flock to the city every year. The next time you find yourself down south, treat yourself to some relaxation and cool down in oneof the coolest cities in Texas.
8. Big Bend National Park
This next tourist attraction is one of the best places to visit in Texas if you enjoy the outdoors. Scratch out a couple days of your vacation and dedicate them to Big Bend National Park. If you are looking for some fun things to do in Texas as well as some natural Texas attractions, then this place is for you. Soak in the sight of the beautiful mountain ranges that will surround you. Then choose one of any of the 200 miles of hiking trails that is available to you. Be sure to bring your camera along, because the trails will offer some of the most beautiful scenic views that are begging to be photographed. (Even though your camera will likely not do them any justice). Don’t forget to make a stop at one of the many cool rock formations.
For those of you who are a little too hesitant to explore the wilderness, don’t worry. You can still enjoy the beautiful park by driving along one of the many paved paths that are specifically made for vehicles.
Timing Is Key
With all the beautiful places to visit in Texas, you want to make sure you get the timing right. The hot Texas heat can be unbearable and frankly dangerous if you travel with little ones. Fortunately, with a little planning, you can be sure to avoid this.
While the rest of the country flocks to vacations destinations during the summer, you may want to hold off on yours. Periods of March through May are the best time to plan things to do in Texas if you are looking to go in the spring. If you do, you are likely to catch some of the beautiful spring blooms the state has to offer. Another option is to wait until after summer to explore some of the cool places Texas has to offer, then September to November is your best bet. If you do go in the later months, don’t worry. The southern heat will still be there, but it will be bearable and enjoyable as you explore some of the best cities in Texas.
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