City And Town Map Of Texas Travel Guide

Introduction

Located in the southern United States, Texas is known for its diverse landscape, rich history, and vibrant culture. From big cities like Houston and Dallas to small towns like Fredericksburg and Marfa, Texas has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best of Texas, including its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, and more.

Top Attractions

San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is a must-visit attraction in Texas. This 15-mile-long network of walkways along the San Antonio River is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Be sure to take a boat tour to see the beautiful river and surrounding architecture.

The Alamo

The Alamo is a famous historical site located in San Antonio. This former mission was the site of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836 and is now a museum and monument to Texas history. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore on their own.

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is located in the southwestern part of Texas and offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains, the Rio Grande River, and the Chihuahuan Desert. Visitors can hike, camp, and explore the park’s diverse wildlife and geological formations.

The Space Center Houston

The Space Center Houston is the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Visitors can learn about space exploration, see real spacecraft and artifacts, and take a tram tour of the Johnson Space Center.

Hidden Gems

Marfa

Marfa is a small town in West Texas that has become a hub for artists and creatives. Visitors can explore the town’s art scene, visit the famous Marfa lights, and enjoy the beautiful desert landscape.

Caddo Lake

Caddo Lake, located in East Texas, is the only natural lake in Texas and is known for its cypress trees and swampy landscape. Visitors can take a guided boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the lake.

Gorman Falls

Gorman Falls is a hidden gem located in Colorado Bend State Park. This stunning waterfall is only accessible by a 1.5-mile hike, but the breathtaking view is worth the effort.

Food Scene

Tex-Mex Cuisine

Texas is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines traditional Mexican dishes with Texas flavors. Some must-try dishes include breakfast tacos, queso, and fajitas.

Barbecue

Texas is also known for its barbecue, with many cities and towns having their own unique style. Some popular barbecue joints include Franklin Barbecue in Austin and Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor.

Kolaches

Kolaches are a Czech pastry that has become popular in Texas. These sweet or savory pastries are filled with ingredients like sausage, cheese, and fruit.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visit State Parks

Texas has many beautiful state parks that are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Most state parks have a small entrance fee, but they are much cheaper than other tourist attractions.

Explore Free Museums

Many museums in Texas offer free admission, including the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.

Take a Walking Tour

Walking tours are a great way to explore a city or town on a budget. Many cities offer free or low-cost walking tours, or you can create your own using a guidebook or map.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

Texas has many great hiking trails, including the Guadalupe Mountains in West Texas and the Hill Country trails near Austin. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the Texas heat can be intense.

Camping

Camping is a great way to experience Texas’s natural beauty. Many state parks offer campsites and amenities like showers and electricity.

Fishing

Texas has many great fishing spots, including the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Travis near Austin, and the Guadalupe River in Central Texas.

Historical Landmarks

The Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is located in Austin and is the largest state capitol building in the United States. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about Texas history.

The Fort Worth Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic district in Fort Worth that has been preserved as a tribute to Texas’s cowboy culture. Visitors can see a cattle drive, attend a rodeo, and explore the district’s shops and restaurants.

The USS Lexington

The USS Lexington is a retired aircraft carrier that is now a museum in Corpus Christi. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its history.

Family-Friendly Activities

Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas is an amusement park located in Arlington that has roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions for all ages.

The Children’s Museum of Houston

The Children’s Museum of Houston is a hands-on museum that encourages learning and exploration for children of all ages.

The Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world. Visitors can see elephants, lions, and giraffes, among other animals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Cadillac Ranch

The Cadillac Ranch is an art installation located in Amarillo that features ten Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars.

The Terlingua Ghost Town

The Terlingua Ghost Town is a former mining town located near Big Bend National Park. Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the town’s history.

The Texas White House

The Texas White House is a historic home located in the small town of Blanco. This beautiful home was once owned by President Lyndon B. Johnson and is now open for tours.

Natural Wonders

The Enchanted Rock

The Enchanted Rock is a large pink granite dome located in the Hill Country near Fredericksburg. Visitors can hike to the top for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Palo Duro Canyon

The Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States and is located near Amarillo. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the canyon.

The Hamilton Pool Preserve

The Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural swimming hole located near Austin. The pool is fed by a waterfall and surrounded by lush vegetation.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Sixth Street Entertainment District

The Sixth Street Entertainment District is a popular nightlife area in Austin that is known for its live music and bars.

The River Walk in San Antonio

The River Walk in San Antonio is also a great place to spend an evening, with many restaurants and bars along the river.

The West 7th District in Fort Worth

The West 7th District in Fort Worth has a variety of nightlife options, including bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

Local Markets

The Dallas Farmers Market

The Dallas Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts.

The Pearl Farmers Market in San Antonio

The Pearl Farmers Market in San Antonio is a weekly market that features local vendors and live music.

The Houston Heights Farmers Market

The Houston Heights Farmers Market is a community market that features local produce, honey, and other goods.

Beaches and Mountains

South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a popular beach destination located on the southern tip of Texas. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports like kayaking and parasailing.

The Davis Mountains

The Davis Mountains are located in West Texas and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike, camp, and stargaze in this remote area.

Galveston Island

Galveston Island is a popular beach destination located on the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and explore the island’s historic architecture and attractions.