It’s no secret that Texas is big — huge, actually — but its size is nowhere near as impressive as its geographical and cultural diversity. Here, the lush, green East meets the boundless, open West as city streets turn to country roads and back again. Whether you’re looking for lakes and prairies, Spanish moss–drenched forests, the vast desert, or the salty, sandy coast, Texas has a destination for you.
And it’s not just nature on offer. The state is home to five of the 15 largest cities in the U.S. So no matter what type of traveler you are, there’s a vacation for you in the Lone Star State. Discover yours below.
For Design-Lovers: Big Bend Country
As the westernmost part of Texas, Big Bend’s sprawling landscape makes it a wonderful place for camping and stargazing — but art and architecture-lovers might find more appeal in trendy nearby Marfa. And, despite what you've seen on social media, there’s plenty more to the tiny town than the iconic Prada Marfa installation. In fact, the beautiful area is home to over 20 museums and galleries.
While there, be sure to check out the Marfa Lights — a mysterious phenomenon said to be the work of UFOs — or the artist known as Mother Nature. Ysleta Mission in El Paso dates back to the 1600s, and although it’s been reconstructed over the years, it’s a prime example of the time period’s adobe architecture. Additionally, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site offers up a rare gilded take on the usually modest adobe. The 19-room homestead was built in 1875, and its three wings have been meticulously preserved and restored.
For History Buffs: South Texas Plains
This stretch of South Texas extends from San Antonio to the Rio Grande River, and is filled with rich American history. First, stop by The Alamo — where the pivotal Texas Revolution battle was held during the 19th century — before exploring the rest of the San Antonio Missions via bike. Joined by an eight-mile trail along the San Antonio River and built by Franciscan missionaries in the 18th century, the complex of stone buildings is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The trail will also lead you to the King William District, a quaint neighborhood dotted with Victorian homes, and the San Antonio Museum of Art. Housed in a former Lone Star Brewery, the collections span 5,000 years of art including works from the ancient Mayans to Ansel Adams. Once you’ve taken in all San Antonio has to offer, head south to King Ranch. Continuously operating since 1853, the cattle ranch sprawls over more acres than the state of Rhode Island.
For Road-Trippers: Panhandle Plains
Whether you’re passing through the state on I-40 or it’s your destination, the Texas Panhandle offers plenty of sights without stepping out of your car (although we highly recommend you do). Stop in Amarillo to see Cadillac Ranch, an art installation that features 10 graffiti-covered, antique Cadillacs buried hood-first in the ground. Then drive through the U.S. Route 66-Sixth Street Historic District for a 13-block, tongue-in-cheek peon to mid-century styles. Next, head south to Palo Duro Canyon State Park to see the country’s second largest canyon and onto Lubbock to visit the Buddy Holly museum. You don’t even need to go inside to get a pic with a life-size sculpture of the singer.
For Beach Bums: The Gulf Coast
Texas may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of a beach vacation, but maybe it should be. With 600 miles of coastline and beach towns like Galveston, Rockport, and Port Arthur, the Gulf Coast offers plenty of space to pitch an umbrella and find your spot along the Gulf of Mexico.
There are many non-beach activities to experience, too. Wander down the boardwalks of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, or hit the Galveston Pleasure Pier. If you’re craving the city, take a day trip to Houston and opt for a CityPASS, which includes admissions to the Space Center, Houston Zoo, the Museum of Natural Science, and additional attractions.
For Forest Bathers: The Piney Woods
With flower-filled meadows, ample woods and streams, and four national forests, the Piney Woods is a nature-lover’s dream. You’ll find towering Longleaf Pines, carnivorous Sundews, and rare, flowering Texas Trailing Phlox in the Big Thicket National Preserve, plus trails and lakes for exploring. Head to Caddo Lake State Park to see cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss and kayak through its maze of waterways. When you’re done, you can get your flower fix in Tyler, the rose capital of America, with tours at the LeGrand or Tyler Municipal rose gardens as well as Chamblee’s Rose Nursery.
For Wild Westers: Prairies & Lakes
If you’re looking for quintessential Texas, look no further than this slice of the state that’s home to the Dallas/Fort Worth metro, expansive prairies, and plenty of lakes. Hop on a 1920s train with Grapevine Vintage Railroad and ride past small towns and beautiful countryside on your way to Fort Worth, a family-friendly city that keeps that Wild West spirit alive. In Fort Worth, you can jump-start the action at Stockyards Championship Rodeo, watch professional bull riders at Billy Bob’s, or visit the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.
In spring, don’t miss bluebonnet season, when the state flower blankets the countryside in blooms. The city of Ennis hosts a festival during peak bloom in April, and is home to the Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail as well as over 30 acres of undisturbed tall-grass prairie.
For Adventurous Families: The Hill Country
If you’re an adventure-loving crew, there’s plenty of fun to be had in the rolling hills of Central Texas. Cool down at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, a family-owned attraction halfway between San Antonio and Austin. It’s 70 acres of H20 fun with 40 attractions that appeal to all ages (and risk-taking preferences). After, try kayaking on Lake Travis or hit up a swimming hole in Jacob’s Well Natural Area or Blue Hole Regional Park. For more land-based fun, explore the 11 miles of trails at Enchanted Rock (a 425-foot, 640-acre granite dome) or climb up to the top of Old Baldy for 360 views of the Hill Country. You can also fly above the land with a zip line tour in Lake Travis, Cedar Pines, or Wimberley.
