No matter your travel needs or interests, Texas offers something special. From coastal beaches and mountains to desert landscapes and metropolitan centers, Texas provides plenty of entertainment.
As much as Texas offers many popular touristy attractions, there are also many hidden gems that will leave you with the feeling that you’ve discovered something truly remarkable. From star-gazing observatories to sea turtle rehabilitation centers – here are some top spots you should add to your Texas bucket list.
Jefferson
Nestled in the Piney Woods region of East Texas, Jefferson is a picturesque town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Take a steamboat ride on Caddo Lake, explore historic homes and museums, and enjoy antique shopping.
Fort Worth
Fort Worth, in North Texas, is an attractive tourist and local destination with attractions including a zoo and botanical garden.
Established in 1909, the Fort Worth Zoo boasts over 7,000 animals that reside across a variety of habitats. Visitors can observe them directly or participate in educational programs offered at this unique destination.
Visit Fort Worth’s Museum of Science and History for an engaging exhibits experience that are both engaging and interactive.
Experience all that this museum has to offer with exhibits like its planetarium, innovation studios and Omni Theater – great fun for both kids and adults!
Experience the thrill of a traditional Texas rodeo, where you can watch cowboys and cowgirls showcase their skills in events like bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo are popular events.
Take a tour of Log Cabin Village to experience what life was like during pioneer times. Visit authentic log cabin homes, schoolhouse and blacksmith shop with demonstrations on how to carve iron with pioneer tools.
Port Aransas
Situated on Mustang Island, Port Aransas is a charming beach town with miles of pristine shoreline. Relax on the beach, go fishing or dolphin watching, and visit the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center to spot a variety of bird species.
Waco
Waco is an ideal city in Texas if you’re searching for new tourist destinations to experience. First made famous as an attraction through Chip and Joanna Gaines from Fixer Upper fame, Waco now also boasts an abundance of other great attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Waco is home to art galleries, massive colorful murals, boutique clothing and home furnishing stores, unique restaurants, natural attractions and outdoor recreation options aplenty. Explore its historic downtown district on foot or bike, admire heritage homes or check out Lake Waco’s pristine wetlands – it all awaits your discovery in Waco!
If you want to sample some local beverages, take a tasting tour at Valley Mills Vineyards and Balcones Distilling. Waco residents love visiting these wineries; Balcones Distilling boasts award-winning spirits which you can sample.
Davis Mountains State Park
Located in the Trans-Pecos region, Davis Mountains State Park offers rugged beauty and opportunities for camping, hiking, and stargazing. Visit the McDonald Observatory nearby for incredible views of the night sky.
San Antonio
San Antonio boasts an amalgamation of Spanish, German and American cultures, providing visitors with ample opportunity to discover history and art. Notable attractions in San Antonio are its restaurants, shops and River Walk.
Visit Texas frontier history at sites like Alamo and Missions National Historical Park. Additionally, discover an assortment of educational museums that exhibit art, science and history exhibits.
San Antonio Zoo is another must-visit attraction, boasting one of the world’s largest bird collections and housing numerous animals including giraffes and zebras.
An enjoyable way to explore the San Antonio Zoo Eagle is a wonderful way to traverse its path along Brackenridge Park and along the San Antonio River. Plus, stop off at Witte Museum, Kiddie Park or Japanese Tea Gardens along your journey for even more adventures!
Terlingua
Nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert, Terlingua is a quirky ghost town near Big Bend National Park. Explore the abandoned mining ruins, soak in the natural hot springs, and enjoy the vibrant music and arts scene.
Austin
Austin, Texas offers an abundance of fun activities and events. Enjoy some sunbathing or learn something new while making new friends – there are numerous attractions in Austin for every taste!
One of the top attractions in Austin is the Texas State Capitol building. Tourists and residents alike should make time to visit this breathtaking structure, which makes an appearance on both lists.
As well as hosting the state capitol, this city boasts numerous other attractions and activities, such as museums and outdoor attractions.
Head to the Congress Avenue Bridge in downtown Austin to witness the world’s largest urban bat colony. From March to November, around sunset, you can see thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the bridge—a spectacular natural phenomenon.
Elisabet Ney Museum For anyone interested in German-American sculptor Elisabet Ney’s work, visiting her Elisabet Ney Museum should be top of your agenda. Here you will find many of her notable pieces – busts of various celebrities among them.
Experience something truly remarkable without breaking the bank in Austin with this unique museum experience, free admission and no parking fee required – make this part of your Austin itinerary now!
Marfa
Located in West Texas, Marfa is a small town known for its vibrant arts scene. It’s home to the famous Marfa Lights and features unique art installations, galleries, and cultural events.
The Marfa Lights are a unknown phenomenon causing interesting lights to appear in the night sky.
Enchanted Rock
Located in the Hill Country near Fredericksburg (about 1 hour 45 min from Austin), Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite dome that offers scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. It’s a popular spot for rock climbing and stargazing.
Caverns of Sonora
Venture deep into the Caverns of Sonora, one of the most stunning cave systems in the world. Guided tours will take you through intricate formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological wonders.