14 of the Best Things to Do in Texas

Texas, the land of the cowboys and the Wild West. Did you know that only 10% of the land area in this state is a desert? Most of it covers grasslands, forests, and coastlines. Don’t be afraid to travel to this marvelous state, because as opposed to its film stereotype, people don’t always carry a gun here! Gather up your boots and make new friends while experiencing new things.

Here are the 14 best things to do in Texas:

1. Visit Space Center Houston

Space fans, unite! If you love everything that involves the galaxy, Space Center Houston is perfect for you. Here, you can enjoy interactive exhibits and learn more about space. There are also film screening and a guided tour of NASA and Mission Control.

2. Find Serenity at Big Bend National Park

See mountains, canyons, and the Rio Grande River when you visit the Big Bend National Park. You can enjoy your relaxing time by having a picnic here while bird watching. Or if you want, you can hike, camp, and stay for the night to see the beautiful view of the starry skies from this National Park.

3. Explore San Antonio’s River Walk

At the center of San Antonio City lies the San Antonio River. The River Walk is filled with a beautiful pathway, perfect for strolling whether it’s a sunny day or a chilly night. You can also try cruising on a river board or simply dine in the restaurants within the River Walk.

4. Revisit History by Discovering Texas State Capitol

Standing 308-feet tall is one of Texas’ remarkable and historical landmarks. The Texas State Capitol is a 22-acre park created in 1888 that showcases tribute to the defenders of the Alamo as well as war veterans.

5. Check out The Alamo

Do you know why The Alamo is considered one of the most memorable historical sites in the United States of America? Well, it’s because The Alamo was initially created as a church by the Franciscan to convert the locals into Christianity. Then, it was turned into a fort and became known during the Texas Revolution as a small group when against 3,000 Mexicans and defeated them. Check out the artifacts and weapons on display there.

6. Dance the Night Away at Gruene Hall

Love partying? You should see this oldest dance hall in Texas! One of the best things to do in Texas is to visit this rustic and long-standing dance hall in the small town of New Braunfels. Would you believe that this place has been operating since 1878, and is still able to attract crowds up to this day? Wow, right? They hold performances every night and even known country musicians go here. Don’t worry about your kids because you can bring them here. If they’re under 10, they have a discount!

7. Visit the Padre Island National Seashore

The Padre Island National Seashore is one of the last undeveloped shorelines in the world. Did you know that over 350 migratory birds domicile here? You could see many species such as the famous seagull. One other thing – you can also enjoy your time here by fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and other beach activities.

8. Experience the “Texas Life” at Fort Worth Stockyards

Prepare to channel your inner cowboy because while Fort Worth Stockyards may certainly not be a desert, it doesn’t lack fun! Its name came from the place’s actual purpose, to rest, sort, ship out cattle.

While there are still stockyards, some were converted into visitor attraction places for theater, concerts, shopping centers, and rodeos.

9. Learn About a U.S. President at the Sixth Floor Museum

The history of this museum may be gloomy but it now serves as a place where you could learn about the life of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy. A gunman named Harvey Oswald assassinated the president on November 22, 1963, on the 6th floor of the Texas School Book Depository. Today, the 6th floor serves as a living tribute to the former president where you could also see explanations about American culture during the 60s. The Sixth Floor Museum also covers the seventh floor where programs and exhibits are held.

10. Eat Barbecue at Franklin Barbecue

They say you could never leave Texas without tasting their barbecue! Give Franklin Barbecue a visit because it is one of the BBQ joints that offer delicious meals. You’ll be surprised to see the long lines, but the customers always say “it’s worth the wait.” Don’t miss out on your chance to taste this epitome of best-tasting, tender smoked-meats.

11. Hike the Peaks of Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the place of the 4 tallest peaks in Texas, is a wildly popular place for thrill-seekers. Hikers usually frequent Guadalupe Peak, which is the highest natural point in Texas. Don’t be afraid to explore this national park.

You’d find that this place is home to bountiful wildlife. In fact, you could also see lush springs and maybe go for biking trails too.

12. Visit the Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Did you know that the 2nd largest canyon in the United States of America is located in Texas? Visit the Palo Duro Canyon State Park and experience beauty at its finest. The Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers fantastic views you wouldn’t want to miss. It’s a must-see attraction that is perfect for your travel photos.

13. Take a Dip in Galveston’s Beaches

Like any other beaches, you can always enjoy swimming in the salty waters. But what makes Galveston different is that the water is calm and shallow, and it’s perfect for when you bring your kids to the beach. Take your family here to enjoy a relaxing vacation.

14. Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science

You can’t leave an American state without visiting a museum, especially if it’s for Natural Science! The Houston Museum houses a diverse collection of natural artifacts. Here, you could see authentic dinosaur skeletons, other extinct animals’ skeletons, gemstones that come from all over the world. In addition to that, you’ll get a better glimpse of Ancient Egypt – even the mummies look realistic. The Houston Museum of Natural Science houses both permanent and temporary exhibits. The temporary exhibits showcase creations like crowns, replicas of world-known landmarks, and modern arts like lego sculptures. It also has a planetarium where you could learn about the space as well as a giant screen theater where you could watch 3D films.

What’s the first thing you’re going to do in Texas?