Looking for the best places to visit in Texas? Here are 18 of our favorite places in Texas to explore!
Texas is the largest state in the continental US. With so much surface area, there are so many unique and diverse places to visit in Texas!
If you’re looking for culture, art, and history, check out one of the major cities of the Lone Star State. Dallas has a charming downtown historic district and is home to the iconic Sixth Floor Museum.
Just around the corner is the impressive city of Fort Worth where you can find authentic cowboy culture at the Fort Worth Stockyards. And down south, you can uncover the Spanish influences in San Antonio! Make sure you stroll along the world-famous River Walk!
Or you can explore the capital city of Austin and see highlights like Lady Bird Lake or the Texas State Capitol Building.
Those looking for a bit of nature can head to world-class national parks like Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Big Bend National Park.
Other natural wonders of Texas include the islands of the Texas Gulf Coast, Hamilton Pool and Enchanted Rock in Texas Hill Country, and Palo Duro Canyon which is also known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas”.
From traversing hiking trails or horseback riding in national and state parks, to exploring cities like San Antonio and Fort Worth, here is our list of the best places to visit in Texas!
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18 Best Places To Visit In Texas
From amusement parks and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, to the Texas State Capitol in Austin or the River Walk in San Antonio, Texas is home to a wide variety of attractions.
Texas is also huge! Renting a car and road-tripping around the state is a great way to get around, as is flying domestically and just doing day trips around a city.
However you choose to explore, here are 18 of the best places to visit in Texas that you can add to your bucket list.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Dallas
Dallas, Texas, stands as a vibrant and sprawling metropolis deeply rooted in a rich blend of history, culture, and modern innovation.
As one of the largest cities in the United States, Dallas boasts a dynamic cityscape characterized by towering skyscrapers, bustling commercial districts, and expansive residential neighborhoods.
The city’s iconic skyline is dominated by architectural marvels such as Reunion Tower and Bank of America Plaza, reflecting its forward-thinking spirit. Downtown Dallas hosts a number of attractions including the Dallas World Aquarium and the Majestic Theatre.
Dallas’s downtown area is also full of historic buildings, such as the Texas School Book Depository now known as the Dallas County Administration Building. The city further preserves its cultural heritage through an array of museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles the legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
The city’s dining scene is a testament to this diversity, offering everything from Tex-Mex eateries to upscale steakhouses. Deep Ellum, a historic district, pulses with creativity, hosting live music venues, art galleries, and boutiques.
The State Fair of Texas, a celebrated annual event, captures the essence of Texan culture with its carnival rides, agricultural showcases, and, of course, the iconic fried food offerings.
With a robust sports culture, Dallas proudly supports its professional teams, including the Dallas Cowboys in football and the Dallas Mavericks in basketball, fostering a sense of community pride and engagement.
From the famous Sixth Floor Museum, to the national historic district, to the delicious food, Dallas is packed with fun things to do!
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, a hidden gem in the southwestern United States, showcases the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert and the ancient geological wonders of the Guadalupe Mountains.
Situated in west Texas near the border with New Mexico, the park’s centerpiece is Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, standing tall at 8,751 feet.
The park’s diverse landscape ranges from arid desert valleys to lush canyons, offering a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The striking McKittrick Canyon is particularly renowned for its vibrant autumn foliage, a surprising burst of color amid the desert surroundings.
You can find incredible flora and fauna here, including various cacti and hardy animals like desert mule deer which provide ample opportunities for nature observation and photography.
Beyond its natural beauty, Guadalupe Mountains National Park holds a wealth of geological history. The park preserves an ancient marine fossil reef, showcasing evidence of an ancient sea that once covered this region over 260 million years ago.
Hiking trails lead visitors through these geological wonders, such as Permian-age fossilized reefs and canyons carved over millennia. The park’s historic Frijole Ranch offers insights into the human history of the area, where settlers once thrived in this remote desert environment.
With its unique blend of natural and historical significance, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of the best national parks in the USA and one of the best places to visit in Texas!
Texas Hill Country
Another one of the more interesting places to visit in the Lone Star State is Texas Hill Country. This vast region in central Texas has rolling hills, serene rivers, and vibrant wildflowers that create a haven for nature lovers.
Characterized by its distinctive limestone terrain, Hill Country offers a unique topography dotted with charming small towns, wineries, and ranches. The Guadalupe River and the Pedernales River meander through the region, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, tubing, and fishing.
Texas Hill Country is home to a number of natural wonders, from the natural swimming hole known as Hamilton Pool to Enchanted Rock State Park.
Enchanted Rock, a captivating natural landmark in the heart of Texas Hill Country, stands as an ancient and awe-inspiring geological wonder. This massive pink granite dome offers epic hiking trails and panoramic vistas.
The cultural richness of Texas Hill Country adds another layer of allure to the region. Historic German and Czech influences are deeply embedded in the area’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Quaint towns such as Fredericksburg exude a European charm with their half-timbered buildings and artisan shops.
The region’s wineries have gained prominence, offering tours and tastings that highlight the thriving local wine industry. Each spring, the Texas Hill Country bursts into a riot of color as bluebonnets and other wildflowers blanket the fields and roadsides, drawing visitors from far and wide.
From natural wonders like Enchanted Rock and Hamilton Pool, to the cultural offerings including charming towns and wineries, this park of Texas is an absolute must-see!
San Antonio
San Antonio is a vibrant city that is easily one of the best places to visit in Texas. Steeped in Spanish colonial heritage, the city’s iconic symbol, the Alamo, stands as a poignant reminder of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, a pivotal moment in Texas history.
The city’s historic downtown, including the lively San Antonio River Walk, is a bustling hub of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Here, visitors can take leisurely boat rides along the river, exploring the intricate network of walkways adorned with colorful flora and charming bridges.
Beyond its historical allure, San Antonio embraces modernity with a thriving arts and technology scene. The Pearl District, once a brewery complex, has transformed into a hip and trendy neighborhood, featuring upscale shops, culinary delights, and a weekend farmers’ market.
The city’s educational institutions, including the University of Texas at San Antonio, contribute to a vibrant intellectual community. From the iconic San Antonio River Walk to the famous attractions like the Alamo to the delicious cuisine on offer, San Antonio is one of the top places to visit in Texas!
Check out our ultimate itinerary for your next visit to San Antonio!
Big Bend National Park
One of the best national parks in Texas is Big Bend National Park, located in west Texas. Named after the dramatic bend in the Rio Grande that forms the park’s southern boundary, Big Bend National Park encompasses over 800,000 acres of canyons, desert, mountains, and river environments.
The park’s signature feature is the Chisos Mountains, an oasis of greenery amidst the surrounding arid terrain, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
The Santa Elena Canyon and the Chisos Basin are among the park’s iconic attractions, showcasing the grandeur of the natural formations. The Rio Grande River, a vital artery of life, winds through the Big Bend National Park, creating a unique border between the United States and Mexico, and offering activities like river rafting and kayaking.
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Big Bend National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to over 1,200 species of plants, including various cacti and other desert flora, as well as a diverse array of animals, from elusive mountain lions to javelinas and roadrunners.
The remote location and limited light pollution also make it a prime spot for stargazing, earning the park a designation as an International Dark Sky Park.
Whether it’s exploring the rugged trails, immersing oneself in the solitude of the desert, or simply marveling at the vastness of the night sky, Big Bend National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature in west Texas.
Waco
Waco, nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, is a city that blends a rich historical tapestry with a vibrant contemporary spirit.
Perhaps best known as the home of Baylor University, a prestigious institution with a strong academic reputation, Waco draws a diverse population of students and scholars.
The city made a mark on pop culture through the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a lifestyle brand created by Chip and Joanna Gaines of the HGTV show “Fixer Upper.” Magnolia Market, featuring an array of shops, food trucks, and green spaces, has become a magnet for visitors seeking a taste of Waco’s unique charm.
History buffs find plenty to explore in Waco as well. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum commemorates the storied history of the Texas Rangers, while the Dr. Pepper Museum pays homage to the beloved soda’s origins in the city.
Waco’s location along the banks of the Brazos River provides opportunities for outdoor activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, horseback riding, and picnicking by the waterfront. Families can explore Cameron Park Zoo or marvel at ancient fossils at the national historic landmark, Waco Mammoth National Monument.
The city’s warm and welcoming community combined with its popular tourist attractions make Waco one of the best places to visit in Texas.
Caddo Lake State Park
Caddo Lake State Park, located within the mysterious beauty of east Texas, offers a unique and enchanting escape into a world of marshes, bayous, and towering cypress trees draped with Spanish moss.
The park is centered around Caddo Lake, one of the few natural lakes in Texas, renowned for its hauntingly beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
A paddler’s paradise, the lake is a maze of waterways, perfect for canoeing or kayaking, allowing visitors to navigate through the labyrinthine channels while immersed in the serene ambiance of the swampy surroundings.
The park’s lush flora and fauna, including diverse bird species and abundant aquatic life, provide a rich tapestry of wildlife to explore and observe.
Caddo Lake State Park is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a glimpse into the region’s history and culture. The park offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping, allowing visitors to engage with the natural world at their own pace.
A historic oil field and interpretive center provide insights into the area’s oil heritage, adding a layer of industrial history to the natural wonders.
The park’s rustic cabins and campsites nestled beneath the towering trees create a serene backdrop for overnight stays, offering a chance to connect with the land’s tranquility and immerse oneself in the captivating beauty of this distinctive Texas treasure.
Houston
Houston, Texas is another one of the best places to visit in Texas! Often referred to as the “Space City,” Houston boasts a rich history in space exploration and is home to Space Center Houston. This science museum is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program was based.
Beyond its extraterrestrial connections, downtown Houston is a vibrant hub of multiculturalism, evident in its bustling neighborhoods, international cuisine, and a wide range of cultural attractions.
The Museum District is a treasure trove of art, science, and history museums, including the Houston Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, making it a haven for both art enthusiasts and curious minds.
Houston’s dynamic energy extends to its economy as well, as it serves as a global center for industries like energy, healthcare, and technology. The city’s skyline is dotted with iconic skyscrapers, reflecting its economic prowess and modernity.
With its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, Houston is known for its diverse culinary scene, highlighted by its world-famous Tex-Mex cuisine and seafood offerings. The city’s commitment to green spaces is evident in Hermann Park and Buffalo Bayou Park, providing oases of nature within the urban expanse.
From the Space Center Houston to the incredible museums and cuisine, Houston could easily entertain visitors for 3 days or more!
Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore, a pristine coastal sanctuary along the Gulf of Mexico in southern Texas, unfolds as a breathtaking expanse of untouched beauty and natural wonder.
As the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world, Padre Island National Seashore preserves a delicate ecosystem that encompasses sandy beaches, dunes, tidal flats, and vibrant saltwater marshes.
The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for beachcombing, birdwatching, kayaking, and fishing. The seashore’s most famous residents include the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, which use its shores as nesting grounds, making it a vital sanctuary for these majestic creatures.
Padre Island National Seashore has over 70 miles of pristine coastline, visitors can experience a sense of solitude and connection with nature that’s increasingly rare.
The absence of paved roads and the minimal development create an atmosphere of pristine wilderness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the serenity of the sea, sand, and sky.
Whether it’s watching the sunrise over the Gulf waters, exploring the dynamic dune systems, or simply strolling along the shorelines, Padre Island National Seashore offers a rejuvenating experience in harmony with the raw beauty of nature.
Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Texas
South Padre Island
Located just south of Padre Island National Seashore, South Padre Island is another gem of the Texas Gulf Coast that is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Texas.
South Padre Island is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a vibrant blend of relaxation and recreation. As a premier vacation destination, this barrier island offers a wide range of activities for all types of visitors.
Beachgoers can bask in the warm sun, swim in the Gulf of Mexico’s inviting waters, or partake in thrilling water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and kiteboarding.
The island’s coastal environment also provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as migratory birds make their way through the region, and sea turtles find sanctuary on its shores. Visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center to learn all about the local flora and fauna!
Beyond the beach, South Padre Island has a fun entertainment district lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, offering a diverse array of dining experiences, nightlife, and local crafts. The island is renowned for its vibrant events, including spring break festivities and annual sandcastle-building competitions that draw visitors from far and wide.
With its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and lively entertainment, South Padre Island captures the essence of a perfect coastal escape that caters to both relaxation seekers and adventure enthusiasts.
Natural Bridge Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns unveils a mesmerizing underground world that enchants visitors with its otherworldly formations and geological wonders. Discovered in 1960, these caverns are one of the largest and most well-preserved cave systems in the United States.
Guided tours lead visitors through a subterranean labyrinth of breathtaking chambers adorned with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and delicate draperies.
The intricate formations and the dramatic play of light create a surreal environment, leaving an indelible impression of the Earth’s hidden beauty.
Additionally, the Discovery Adventure Tour offers a more adventurous option for visitors, delving deeper into the cave’s depths and allowing them to experience the cave’s natural state.
Natural Bridge Caverns also offers a variety of above-ground attractions. The Natural Bridge Mining Company provides a hands-on gem and fossil mining experience for children and adults alike. The Canopy Challenge and Zip Lines offer outdoor adventures, combining physical challenges and exhilarating zipline rides amidst the beautiful Hill Country landscape.
The park’s educational focus is also evident, with opportunities for geology and science exploration, making it an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re captivated by the ethereal beauty of the caverns, seeking outdoor thrills, or embracing a learning adventure, Natural Bridge Caverns stands as a testament to the Earth’s hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Austin
No list of the best places to visit in Texas would be complete without the capital city! Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” with a vibrant music scene deeply ingrained in its culture.
Visitors to Austin can enjoy countless live music venues offering an eclectic range of genres, from blues and country to indie and rock. The annual South by Southwest (SXSW) festival transforms the city into a global hub for music, film, and technology, drawing artists, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the world.
Beyond the music, Austin has a thriving food culture, with a plethora of food trucks, farm-to-table restaurants, and barbecue joints that reflect the city’s diverse and creative spirit.
Nestled along the Colorado River, Austin also embraces its natural surroundings with an abundance of green spaces and outdoor activities.
The Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming hole, provides a refreshing respite from the Texas heat. Zilker Park offers a sprawling urban oasis, perfect for picnics, hiking, and kayaking on Lady Bird Lake.
The city’s motto “Keep Austin Weird” encapsulates its commitment to individuality and creativity, exemplified by the colorful and artsy neighborhoods like South Congress (SoCo) and East Austin. History and architecture lovers can visit the impressive Texas State Capitol Building and go on a free tour.
From the beautiful Lady Bird Lake to the incredible food and music, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Austin!
Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Austin, Texas
Fort Worth
Fort Worth, often referred to as the “City of Cowboys and Culture,” is a captivating blend of Old West charm and modern urban sophistication.
Located in North Texas as part of the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex, Fort Worth preserves its Western heritage with pride, exemplified by the Stockyards National Historic District. Here, visitors can witness daily cattle drives, explore authentic saloons, and shop for cowboy boots and hats.
The Stockyards also host the world’s only twice-daily longhorn cattle parade, a testament to the rich history of Fort Worth as a hub of the cattle industry.
Fort Worth has an amazing Cultural District as well. Here you can find world-class museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, which showcase a diverse range of artistic treasures.
The downtown area of Fort Worth is marked by modern skyscrapers and bustling commercial centers, blending harmoniously with its historic architecture.
Sundance Square, a vibrant entertainment district in Fort Worth, is a hotspot for locals and visitors to gather to enjoy theaters, restaurants, live music, and seasonal events.
The city’s commitment to the arts is evident in its annual Main St. Arts Festival, one of the largest in the U.S., and its vibrant local music scene.
With a balance between tradition and progress, Fort Worth offers a multifaceted experience that appeals to both history buffs and urban explorers seeking a taste of Texan authenticity.
Find more things to do in the area with our 3-Day Dallas Itinerary!
Colorado Bend State Park
Another beautiful spot to visit in Texas is Colorado Bend State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spanning over 5,300 acres, the park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling hills to dramatic canyons and pristine riverfronts.
The park’s centerpiece is Gorman Falls, a breathtaking 60-foot cascading waterfall framed by lush vegetation. A hike to this natural wonder rewards visitors with an awe-inspiring view and a glimpse into the unique flora of the region. Hikers can also embark on a number of epic trails that traverse the enchanting countryside.
Colorado Bend State Park is also a prime destination for cave exploration, with guided tours taking visitors through the stunning formations of caves like the Gorman Cave and the impressive, remote Spicewood Springs Cave.
Anglers can try their luck in the park’s fishing-friendly waters, with the Colorado River providing opportunities to catch bass, catfish, and more.
With campgrounds nestled beneath the starlit Texas sky, the park also invites visitors to experience the tranquility of a night in nature. So if you’re looking for a wild experience out in the wilderness, Colorado Bend is one of the best state parks to visit in Texas.
Galveston
Galveston, a historic island city in southeastern Texas, weaves a compelling narrative of maritime heritage, Victorian architecture, and a vibrant coastal culture.
Known as the “Queen City of the Gulf,” Galveston boasts a rich history as a major port and a hub of trade during the late 19th century.
This history is beautifully preserved in the city’s Strand Historic District, where 19th-century buildings house a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers a nostalgic nod to the past with classic amusement park rides, a bustling boardwalk, and stunning waterfront views.
The island’s pristine beaches and vibrant cultural scene make it a popular year-round destination. With over 32 miles of sandy shoreline, Galveston provides ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and beachfront fun.
The city also embraces its arts and culture, boasting theaters, museums, and galleries that celebrate its creative spirit.
The Galveston Arts Center and the Galveston Railroad Museum are just a couple of the cultural highlights visitors can explore.
Galveston’s connection to the sea is palpable through attractions like the Texas Seaport Museum, where the 1877 tall ship Elissa is docked, offering an authentic maritime experience.
Another one of the city’s top tourist attractions is Moody Gardens. This sprawling complex features attractions such as a lush rainforest pyramid, an aquarium with marine life from various ecosystems, and an interactive discovery center.
Whether you want to learn about nature at Moody Gardens, delve into the local history, or indulge in the entertainment at the Pleasure Pier, Galveston encapsulates the essence of a Texas coastal getaway.
Related: Don’t miss this post on the best things to do in Galveston!
Corpus Christi
If you’re looking for a coastal getaway, Corpus Christi is one of the best places to visit in Texas! Situated on the Gulf of Mexico in southern Texas, Corpus Christi beckons with its coastal charm, rich history, and lively spirit.
As the “Sparkling City by the Sea,” Corpus Christi boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches and a thriving waterfront scene.
The city’s bayfront offers a vibrant atmosphere, with attractions like the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, a World War II aircraft carrier turned museum, and the Texas State Aquarium, where visitors can explore marine life from the Gulf.
The city’s cultural heart beats in places like the Art Museum of South Texas and the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, offering a diverse range of artistic and educational experiences.
Corpus Christi’s robust maritime culture is evident in its thriving port and a myriad of water-centric activities.
Sailing, fishing, and windsurfing are popular pastimes, and the city is a gateway to the Padre Island National Seashore, providing access to unspoiled beaches and diverse ecosystems.
For history buffs, the Presidio La Bahía, a reconstructed Spanish fort, offers insights into the region’s colonial past. You can even go on a ghost tour to put an exciting twist on your history lesson.
The city’s diverse culinary scene reflects its coastal location, with an abundance of seafood restaurants serving up freshly caught Gulf delicacies. With a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities, Corpus Christi embodies the relaxed yet vibrant essence of a coastal Texan city.
Palo Duro Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” is a striking testament to the diverse landscapes of the Texas Panhandle.
This magnificent canyon stretches for over 120 miles and plunges to depths of around 800 feet, revealing stunning layers of colorful rock formations that span millions of years of geological history.
As the second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon offers a surreal backdrop of towering cliffs, rugged terrain, and vibrant hues that change with the shifting light of the day.
The Lighthouse Rock, an iconic rock formation, stands as a sentinel within the canyon, drawing hikers and explorers to witness its majestic presence.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which encompasses this geological marvel, is one of the best state parks in the Lone Star State. Hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the canyon, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to experience the terrain up close.
The park also offers camping, horseback riding, and wildlife watching, allowing visitors to connect with nature in a profound way.
The annual musical drama “Texas,” performed in an outdoor amphitheater within the canyon, celebrates the history of the region and is a cultural highlight that adds to the park’s unique appeal.
Palo Duro Canyon offers a truly unforgettable outdoor experience for those who seek to explore its captivating depths.
Mustang Island
Mustang Island is a stunning barrier island located along the Gulf Coast of Texas that invites visitors to experience a tranquil coastal paradise.
Known for its breathtaking beaches, Mustang Island State Park offers miles of pristine shoreline, where soft sands meet the gentle waves of the Gulf. This makes it a haven for beachgoers, sunbathers, and water enthusiasts, offering ample space for relaxation and water activities such as swimming, beachcombing, and picnicking.
Beyond the sandy shores, Mustang Island offers a diverse array of ecosystems and outdoor adventures. The Mustang Island Paddling Trail provides an opportunity to explore the island’s estuarine and marsh environments by kayak or canoe, offering a chance to observe coastal wildlife up close.
The island is also a popular destination for birdwatching, as migratory birds frequent its marshes and beaches. Port Aransas, a charming coastal town on Mustang Island, serves as a gateway to this island getaway, offering fishing charters, art galleries, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Whether seeking relaxation on the beach, engaging in outdoor activities, or exploring the local culture, Mustang Island is one of the best places to visit in Texas.
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