Best 29 Places To Visit In Texas, USA - Updated 2024

Alex
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 14 min read
best places to visit in texas

If there is anywhere that can be considered the “heart of America” it is probably Texas. As the second-largest state in the United States and with its distinct culture and huge landmass, it might as well be its own country, which at one point in time it was. Texas is interesting from a historic perspective as it blends different cultures seamlessly together. Southern Dixie culture mixes with frontier culture and Southwestern Mexican influences to create a patchwork of different regions and cultures that are unique but still very quintessentially “Texas”. The state has always been part of popular media with the notion of cowboy and country-western music. Speaking of the music scene, Austin is the “live music capital of the world” and showcases energetic music venues. This is a big state but if you’re going to visit, make sure to read our list below of the best places to visit in Texas, USA.

Upcoming events:

  • Texas Renaissance Festival: Held annually in Todd Mission, a city just outside Houston, Texas Renaissance Festival is the largest such festival in the USA. You can see jousting knights, clowns, and magicians, and fireworks displays are organized each evening. I think it’s a great place to take the family, especially with the fun activities available. The festival is usually organized in October and lasts until December, though the fairgrounds will be open only on weekends.

  • Greek Festival: Celebrated in order to honor the cultural and religious facets of Houston’s Greek community, the Greek Festival offers unique dishes, pastries, drinks, wine, and dancing. The festival is usually held in October in and around the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Houston.

Why Trust Trip101?


Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team

Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles

Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)

Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform

Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts

Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more

Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content

Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.

Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.

1. South Padre Island

South Padre Island is located in the southern part of Texas on the Gulf of Mexico and is perfect for a weekend trip. The gulf area of this beach town has some amazing and beautiful bird species and wildlife so why not get a little acquainted with it up close and personal? This tour is a trip out onto the water where you can watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in a family-friendly and educational environment. Sit back and enjoy the cruise or bring your camera and try to get some snapshots of the dolphin pods going by.

Good to know:

  • Firework displays are put up on Friday and Saturday nights in the summer, and I think it would be great to bring the family to the show!

  • If you plan on fishing here, you’ll be delighted to know that most restaurants here will cook your catch for you!

  • If you want to learn more about the destination, check out the city website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

2. Gruene Historic District, New Braunfels

Gruene Historic District (1 of 1)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Renelibrary used under CC BY-SA 4.0

A lot of Texas was occupied by German settlers in the 19th century and the town of New Braunfels is one of those towns. German farmers in the 1840s came here and one of them was a man named Ernst Gruene. He and his family built the first home just down the river and after planting the cash crop of the time (cotton) on their land, many other families then followed suit and soon, the town began to prosper because of the Gruenes.

By the 1970s, people began to recognize that the Gruene Historic District was important to the landscape of the town, seeing as many buildings from the 1800s were still standing and only needing minimal repairs. Today, the historic site is a testament and homage to old-school Texas where day trip visitors can feel like they stepped back in time, and Gruene still is one of the most beautiful small towns in the state.

Good to know:

  • Make sure to visit Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas, for a fun night dancing to country music. I would love to try out a jig or two here.

  • Coffee aficionados should check out Gruene Coffee Haus. It offers coffee from all over the world, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Brazil, and Guatemala.


Stay here:


Gruene Historic District, New Braunfels

Address: 1601 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States (see map)

Website: Gruene Historic District, New Braunfels

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

Visited this place?

Must-visit attractions in Texas

3. Big Bend National Park

Gfp-texas-big-bend-national-park-closer-look-at-the-basin
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Yinan Chen used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

If there is anywhere that exemplifies the beauty of Texas, you’ll find it at Big Bend National Park. Located in far west Texas, Big Bend National Park will blow your mind with the vast open skies, beautiful canyons, miles of hiking trails, and ancient limestone cliffs. The area’s desert landscape is full of animals and plants and if you’re looking for outdoor activities unlike any other, the Chisos Mountain Range is located in the park with Mexico located on the other side.

Good to know:

  • As it is a desert park, visitors planning to explore Big Bend National Park between May and September are warned to stay off the trails in the afternoon to avoid heat-related health issues.

  • If you want to stay overnight in the park, you must stay at Chisos Mountains Lodge, have a campsite reservation, or a permit for a primitive backcountry campsite.


Stay here:


Big Bend National Park

Website: Big Bend National Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

Visited this place?

4. Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns are a large limestone cave structure in the huge city of San Antonio and they are absolutely stunning to make your way through. It seems to me to be a great place to take the family. The large amphitheater of the cave’s entrance will be the spot to begin your tour but if spelunking isn’t for you, this guest pass also offers tons of other options for landmarks located throughout the city. This tour allows you to select up to five different attractions to visit without having to get a pass ahead of time so you can skip the line.

Good to know:

  • Visitors can book multiple tours according to their interests, including Adventure Tours, Discovery Tour, and a Hidden Wonder Tour.

  • For more information about Natural Bridge Caverns, check out their website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

5. USS Lexington

USS Lexington (CV-16)
Source: Photo by Flickr user Alan Wilson used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The USS Lexington a.k.a “the blue ghost” is located in Corpus Christi, Texas, and it is now one of the most visited museums in that city. The boat served in the Second World War and was generally unsinkable as the Japanese reported to have attempted to sink it no more than four times throughout the war. The USS Lexington wouldn’t stay down as it had been decommissioned and then recommissioned after the war, seeing service into the 1950s. The aircraft carrier is now a museum open to the public and is a pretty neat spot for history and navy lovers.

Good to know:

  • If you’re looking for some fun after a museum tour, book one of the escape room experiences offered at the USS Lexington. Lockdown On The LEX has three escape room scenarios, all priced at 38 USD per person. I think it would be something great to try out with friends.

  • If you’d like more information, check out the official website.


Stay here:


USS Lexington

Address: 2914 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402, United States

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 17 USD

Visited this place?

6. Texas State Aquarium

Texas State Aquarium Exterior
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Smcafee87 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Texas State Aquarium is located in Corpus Christi, which is probably an ideal location as it sits rights on the Gulf of Mexico. The Texas State Aquarium is dedicated to preserving and understanding local sea life and it has one of the best rehabilitation programs for marine animals in the country. This attraction has been around since the 1980s and it is not only the largest in Texas but also one of the biggest in the country. Check out dolphins and stingrays as well as flamingos and learn about ecosystems.

Good to know:

  • Even though it’s an aquarium, the establishment has an ocelot exhibit that will definitely get the kids excited. Count me in for a close look at the ocelots!

  • If you need more details, check out the aquarium’s official website.


Stay here:


Texas State Aquarium

Address: 2710 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402, United States

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 25 USD

Visited this place?

7. Moody Gardens

Posted by Moody Gardens on Saturday, 17 August 2019

Moody Gardens is part amusement park, part resort, and part education center. Located in the coastal city of Galveston, Moody Gardens has been open since 1986 and operates as a non-profit destination and kid-friendly attraction that uses nature to educate its visitors and aims to promote the conservation of wildlife. It has a hotel and golf course on site but a big part of the resort is a sandy white beach, which has a small waterpark for kids and is perfect for day trips during summer.

Good to know:

  • The Rainforest Pyramid is a tropical biome in itself and houses sloths, Saki monkeys, Cotton-top tamarins, and Komodo dragons.

  • Kids will love the 3D and 4D theater experiences available here.


Stay here:


Moody Gardens

Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States (see map)

Website: Moody Gardens

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 30 - 200 USD

Visited this place?

8. Houston Museum of Natural Science

Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the best science museums in the state and it features the largest dinosaur hall in all of North America. This pass grants you access to everything that the museum has to offer. Their extensive collection of rare gems is absolutely mesmerizing and they have permanent exhibits on everything from Texas wildlife to ancient Egypt and, of course, dinosaurs.

Good to know:

  • Cockrell Butterfly Center is a living butterfly habitat within the museum that you can walk and explore. Interactive games and quizzes are also organized here.

  • Burke Baker Planetarium offers an immersive reef exploration experience besides its cosmic displays. I think it would be a great place to just relax and let the visuals calm you.

  • You can get more information about the museum on its official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

9. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Source: Photo by Flickr user Randall Chancellor used under CC BY-SA 2.0

With a name like Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, you better believe that this place is absolutely beautiful. Texas is a massive state with wide-open spaces and open skies, so while all the museums are great, you should definitely spend some time outside and take in the natural beauty. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a perfect place in Central Texas for outdoor lovers to stargaze, rock climb, or even just do some camping. It boasts 11 miles of trails for you to explore and houses some gift shops for souvenirs and camping needs. Bring some amazing food and have a picnic with the family or simply enjoy one of Texas’s most beautiful parks.

Good to know:

  • All trails in the area, except the Loop Trail, close at sunset, so make sure you plan ahead. The Summit Trail may close if the weather is particularly wet.

  • Pets are only allowed on the Loop Trail, day-use picnic areas, and the campgrounds.


Stay here:


Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Address: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States (see map)

Website: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 7 USD

Visited this place?

10. Six Flags Over Texas

Pandemonium at Six Flags Over Texas
Source: Photo by Flickr user Martin Lewison used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Six Flags Over Texas is the spot to go for a fun day filled with rides, games, and just overall total fun. The term “six flags over Texas” was meant to represent the six nations that had sovereignty over some or all of the landmass of Texas at one point in time (Spain, Mexico, France, Republic of Texas, Confederacy, United States). This fun destination opened in 1961 and since then, the amusement park is one of the best in Texas with rides that are some of the biggest and fastest in the state. The park also has lots of festivals and events they host each year, like Spring Break Out and Fright Fest for Halloween.

Good to know:

  • Opt for a VIP Tour for an unbeatable experience at the park. Tour benefits include front-of-the-line ride privileges, an optional private guided tour, and food and drink deals.


Stay here:


Six Flags Over Texas

Address: 2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76011, United States (see map)

Website: Six Flags Over Texas

Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 60 - 80 USD

Visited this place?

11. Inner Space Cavern

best places to visit in texas | inner space cavern
Source: instagram

Inner Space Cavern was a place that was 10,000 years in the making. The cave complex has some of the best-preserved prehistoric cave formations in the country. It was found by accident when they were building a highway in the area in 1963 after road crews took samples of the ground to determine whether or not the soil was good enough to have a road on it. Since then Inner Space Cavern has been a cool tourist destination for spelunkers and people interested in prehistoric natural history. Fossils from saber-tooth tigers and mammoths have been found here, adding to its importance in the city of Georgetown.

Good to know:

  • The attraction offers a gemstone panning experience which I think would be great to do with the kids. You can purchase a bucket of dirt and start panning for gemstones and fossils which you can keep!

  • Make sure to check out their brand-new Saber Tooth zip ride which will take two visitors up to about 130 ft (39.62 m)!


Stay here:


Inner Space Cavern

Address: 4200 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd, Georgetown, TX 78626, United State (see map)

Website: Inner Space Cavern

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm

Price: 20 - 100 USD

Visited this place?

12. San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio Zoo is one of the best in the state and with over 3000 different animals from around the world, the zoo is truly something special. They have the largest species of birds in the world along with many different species of monkeys and some fan favorites like hippos, tigers, and lions. The park is totally family-friendly, so if you’re traveling through San Santonio with the family, this is a perfect place to spend an afternoon. Ride the mini-rail through the park and take in the views of the landscaped grounds, check some snacks and souvenirs in the fun shops, and see the animals from a different point of view.

Good to know:

  • If you want an extra special time with the family, get them all a Fun Pass! For 16 USD, the package allows access to rides, movies, animal encounters, and feeding experiences. And there will be something extra to appease all ages!


Stay here:

Visited this place?

13. Caverns of Sonora

Travertine speleothem (Caverns of Sonora, Texas, USA) 2
Source: Photo by Flickr user James St. John used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Located just a little west of the city of Sonora, the Caverns of Sonora are a National Natural Landmark. The beautiful cave is world-class with amazing calcite crystal formations as well as helictites. These are actually pretty rare making this a unique and special place. The cave is over 100 million years old and has a depth of about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with a lot of trails only having been developed recently since its initial discovery in the 1900s. Discover one of the most beautiful caves in the country and see some rare cave structures.

Good to know:

  • The caves are naturally warm due to their high humidity, so you needn’t bring any jackets or sweaters.

  • Animals are not allowed inside the caverns, however, there are free on-site kennels where your pets will be kept safe.


Stay here:


Caverns of Sonora

Address: 1711 Pvt Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950, United States (see map)

Website: Caverns of Sonora

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 20 USD

Visited this place?

14. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

the sixth floor museum at dealey plaza
Source: www.viator.com

Visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a fun activity for history lovers out there. Located in Dealey Plaza at the spot where Lee Harvey Oswald shot President Kennedy, the area has been turned into a museum showcasing the fateful day in 1963 when Kennedy was assassinated. The building is the former site of the Texas Schoolbook Depository and there are artifacts, films, and photos of the Kennedy assassination. You can look out onto Dallas street below and see everything with your own eyes. It is a little bit macabre but certainly interesting.

Good to know:

  • Note that the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and the last ticket’s sold at 4:15 pm.

  • If you want to read up more on the museum, check out its official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

15. Fredericksburg Winery

California is not the only wine producer in the United States; Texas also has a burgeoning wine industry as well. This tour allows for a full day of checking out the best places around Texas wine country. Head to two different wineries and taste some of the locally made wine from grapes grown from the ground just right outside. See the behind-the-scenes of how wine is made and learn about the charming town of Fredericksburg. Afterward, enjoy lunch and head to the little shops around town.

Good to know:

  • Groups of six people or more are only allowed with prior reservation.

  • Besides wine, you can buy jams, chocolates, jellies, and other products made from wine as souvenirs. I’d love to take some back home!

  • If you want to learn more about the winery, check out its official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

16. Prada Marfa

Prada Marfa
Source: Photo by Flickr user Brad Fults used under CC BY 2.0

Prada Marfa is a weird little landmark that is a little out of the way. But that is what makes it kind of special. The art installation is located just north of the town of Valentine and cost 120,000$ USD to build. The installation is designed to look like a Prada store but does not actually function as a store although it has several Prada wares. Although it somehow appears like a fixer-upper, it was designed to never be repaired and its intent was to blend with the natural landscape. I think it would be a great place to take some cool photos.

Good to know:

  • Although the faux store wasn't commissioned by Prada, Miuccia Prada has contributed authentic pieces from the Prada Fall/Winter 2005 collection to the store, complementing the surrounding landscape.


Stay here:


Prada Marfa

Address: 14880 US-90, Valentine, TX 79854, United States

Website: Prada Marfa

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

Visited this place?

17. Circuit of the Americas

Circuit of the Americas, April 22, 2018 SkySat
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Planet Labs, Inc. used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Got the need for speed? Head to the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. Opened in October 2010, the track has been one of the popular attractions and outdoor recreations for speed and adrenaline lovers. Hosting several events, the raceway is a great spot to come and watch racing enthusiasts and drivers make their laps. The Circuit of the Americas hosts everything from kart racing to F1 and if you’re into getting behind the wheel yourself, there are even driving experiences you can pay for.

Good to know:

  • Peppermint Parkway is a holiday experience that functions as a drive-through. Holiday displays, fairy lights, and elves throng the 1-mile (1.61-kilometer) stretch, offering a magical experience to everyone, especially families.


Stay here:


Circuit of the Americas

Address: 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617, United States (see map)

Website: Circuit of the Americas

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: 20 - 60 USD

Visited this place?

18. Holocaust Museum Houston

Holocaust Museum Houston D
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user WhisperToMe used under CC0

Holocaust Museum in Houston is the fourth largest in the U.S, and after opening in 1996, it has served as a place of remembrance and memorial for those who lost their lives in the Holocaust. Honoring the legacy of both survivors and innocent victims, the museum aims to promote education foremost with an emphasis on teaching about the root causes of hatred and bigotry as well as understanding and empathy. The museum holds events and speakers regularly and has spaces for classrooms and resource rooms for those looking to educate themselves on their own. Galleries and libraries can also be found on the premises as well as information on other genocides that have taken place in the course of the 20th century.

Good to know:

  • Guided tours undertaken by trained docents are available and usually conclude in an hour.


Stay here:


Holocaust Museum Houston

Address: 5401 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77004, United States (see map)

Website: Holocaust Museum Houston

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

Price: 0 - 12 USD

Visited this place?

19. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Welcome to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Source: Photo by Flickr user Ken Lund used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is also one of Texas’ biggest draws as it is the largest park in the world that hosts the most amount of Permian reef fossils. It is also home to some of the highest peaks in Texas. The park is extremely biodiverse, being home to thousands of species of flora and fauna, and it is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Walk the trails in the park and see the plants and animals up close and personal or camp in the vast canyons and backpack through the mountains then stargaze at night.

Good to know:

  • Devil's Hall is a popular section of the park, however, the hike to it is a bit difficult, especially with loose rocks lining the ground that become unstable in wet conditions. Hikers are asked to exercise caution.


Stay here:


Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Website: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)

Price: 7 USD

Visited this place?

20. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Dinosaurs at Perot Museum
Source: Photo by Flickr user Jonathan Cutrer used under CC BY 2.0

Located in Dallas, Perot Museum of Nature and Science is actually split between two campuses; one is located in Victory Park and the other is in Fair Park. Although named after a recent historic figure (Ross and Margot Perot) the museum has been part of the Dallas cultural landscape since 1936 when it was built for the 1936 Texas Centennial Exhibition. The museum in Victory Park has over 6 floors of content and has 11 permanent exhibits as well as 6 learning labs.

Good to know:

  • Kids will love the Tournament of Flight interactive exhibit that lets them take control of a virtual red-tailed hawk to beat the high score! I'd love to take a go at it as well.


Stay here:


Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Address: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States (see map)

Website: Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm

Price: 10 - 20 USD

Visited this place?

21. Space Center Houston

Houston, the largest city in Texas, has always played an important role in NASA’s space exploration all the way back to the first Apollo mission to the moon. Space Center Houston is a fantastic place for any space enthusiast or person interested in history. The tour covers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes on at the NASA Johnson Space Center and there are a ton of interactable popular activities, display artifacts, and multi-media showcases. It’s a perfect destination to bring the kids but there’s no doubt that adults will love it as well.

Good to know:

  • You should opt for a NASA Tram Tour for an unbeatable experience at Space Center Houston. There are three different tours, and while the Astronaut Training Facility Tour and George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park Tour are included in the general admission fee, the Historic Mission Control Tour is charged separately.

  • You can learn more about the space center at its official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

22. Reunion Tower

Located in the city of Dallas, Reunion Tower is one of the city’s biggest attractions. This building is pretty hard to miss and is part of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. This pass allows guests to head to the top of the tower and take in some of the most magnificent views of the city. Get a 360-degree view of the Dallas landscape or take a step outside onto the observation deck and check out their telescopes for an even more breathtaking view. This is a perfect trip for first-timers visiting the city or for a romantic evening in the town.

Good to know:

  • Don’t worry if you didn’t get something to eat before heading up the tower since it is home to Crown Block, an eatery that offers delicious steaks and seafood. It even has an all-inclusive Sunday brunch experience. Count me in for a meal with a view!

  • You can read more about the tower on its official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

23. Kemah Boardwalk

If you’re looking to get a little more out of your trip to the NASA space center or are simply passing through Houston and want to see the highlights, this tour is perfect for you. Hop on an air-conditioned vehicle and cruise to Houston’s famous landmarks and locations like Kemah Boardwalk and the NASA Space Center where you’ll have tons of time to observe the exhibits. The city tour also covers places like Minute Maid Park and the Toyota Center and it has a lot of cool perks included, like free snacks, pick-up, and drop-off from your hotel, and even a free appetizer at one of Kemah Boardwalk’s many restaurants.

Good to know:

  • Kemah Boardwalk offers an all-day ride pass starting at 23 USD. 13 rides are included in the pass, including Boardwalk Bullet Roller Coaster, Century Ferris Wheel, and Pharaoh’s Fury.

  • If you need more details, check out the official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

24. The Alamo

Night at the Alamo
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Lanis J Rossi used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Even for those not familiar with Texas, many have heard of the Alamo. This tour gives an inside look at Texas’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Head out and discover all San Antonio Missions and learn about the history of The Alamo and why it is an important event in Texas history. The tour is located along what is known as the “Mission Trail” and along the way, you’ll make stops and check out the other landmarks in the area and have pre-paid access when you get there so you don’t have to wait in line.

Good to know:

  • The Alamo’s Living History Encampment is a unique way to keep the past alive. The history guides here offer hands-on demonstrations of daily life during the Texas Revolution. I think it’s a great way to learn about history, especially for children.

  • You can learn more about the destination on the official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

25. San Antonio Botanical Garden

San Antonio Botanical Garden Overlook View
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jouaienttoi used under CC BY-SA 4.0

San Antonio Botanical Garden has a mission; to bring the natural world and our world a little closer together. Check out some amazing displays of biodiversity and learn about the natural world and why it is important to keep it thriving. The facility serves many functions like research and education as well as simply a quiet and tranquil space in the city that is dedicated to nature and plants. The San Antonio Botanical Garden has been around since 1980 and receives more than 150,000 visitors a year and it is one of the city’s most visited landmarks.

Good to know:

  • Classes for both adults and children are offered here. While adults partake in culinary classes, the kids can have a fun time in the horticulture garden.

  • Family workshops are also available, and the cooking and gardening workshops will help foster important life skills and provide fun memories.

  • For more information, you can check out their official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

26. SeaWorld San Antonio

Entrance to Sea World, San Antonio, Texas, June 4, 2007
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user TheConduqtor used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Continuing on the trend of Aquatic life in San Antonio is SeaWorld San Antonio! More than just a place where you can catch a glimpse of marine life, this famous attraction is also a pretty fun amusement park with a ton of rides and attractions. Get up close with penguins and sharks or watch a show where dolphins and whales do flips in the water. Enjoy over 30 rides and a day of animal-filled fun.

Good to know:

  • You can’t beat the Ultimate VIP Tour which comes with a private guide, special animal encounters, front-of-the-line ride access, reserved seating at shows, meals, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, and more. The prices start at 400 USD.

  • If you’re interested in learning more about SeaWorld San Antonio, check out their official website.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

27. San Antonio River Walk

San Antonio is a beautiful city with a lot to see and explore but if you’re looking for a good way to see some of the highlights, check out this amazing tour of one of its most popular tourist attractions. San Antonio’s River Walk tour spans over two days and grants access to tons of San Antonio landmarks. First, take a relaxing river cruise on the San Antonio River, then get on a hop-on hop-off bus tour around the city. You’ll have access to over 19 different places to visit at your leisure or simply hang out on the bus and enjoy a nice guided ride through the city.

Good to know:

  • Arneson River Theatre is a fun destination to explore and the amphitheater hosts outdoor performances.

  • San Antonio Museum of Art is situated by the river and is popular for its collection of Egyptian artifacts.

  • Want to read more about the River Walk? Check out its official travel guide.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

28. Texas Capitol

Experience Texas’ capital city, Austin, in a new and fun way. Hop on a Segway and tour the old city of Austin with a guided tour. Roll past famous landmarks and historical attractions around Austin, like the Texas State Capitol, Driskill Hotel, and the historic Sixth street and Rainey street. Guests will get access to a Segway and helmet and receive some training before they set off on their tour. Pack your camera and take note of all the spots you want to return to once the trip is over.

Good to know:

  • Guided tours are available throughout the week. On weekdays, guided tours are scheduled from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, while on the weekend they are available from 12:30 am to 3:30 pm.

  • The Capitol will be closed to visitors on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

  • Check out the Texas State Preservation Board’s page on The Capitol for more details.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

29. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Whether you’re a Dallas or Texas native looking for a mini-vacation or you’re from out of town looking to experience Dallas’s best spots, this tour is a great one. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden are included in this pass and it is a must-see if you’re in the city. You’ll find tons of plants and flowers both from across the state of Texas but also around the United States and even from around the world. This tour also grants you access to Dallas Zoo and Reunion Tower, not to mention a three-night stay in the Magnolia Hotel located right in the heart of the city.

Good to know:

  • You can enjoy your afternoon tea at Restaurant DeGolyer Tea Room situated inside Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Reservations for the tea service must be made 24 hours in advance, and you can delight yourself with soup, sandwiches, sweet treats, and of course, tea! I’d love to just lounge in the garden and savor some snacks.

  • Check out the official website if you want to learn more about the attraction.


Stay here:

Visited this place?

Something for everyone

From the wide-open skies and mountain ranges to the sandy beaches and city’s museums, it does really seem like everything is bigger in Texas. Texas has a little something for everyone, whether you’re into its art and food scene, backpacking through canyons and desert plains, camping under the night sky, or simply embarking on a road trip for scenic drives, and I’d love to explore all of its attractions one day. Head to the Lone Star State and experience some of that Texas hospitality firsthand!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Alex is a Canadian university graduate with degrees in English literature and History. He was born in Montreal and when he's not traveling he enjoys movies, video games, playing the drums and...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Register Here
0 Comments
Explore Texas
Looking for accommodation?
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.
texas all inclusive resorts adults only

3 Best Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts In Texas, USA