Texas, the second largest state in the USA, offers various exciting activities. The state’s varied landscape and population ensure that visitors will never run out of exciting options. Texas offers multiple vacation spots, from urban areas to the coast, the mountains, and even deserts.
Cities in West Texas, such as Amarillo and Lubbock, provide a fascinating contrast to the more populated cities of Houston, Austin, and Dallas. Visit the Hill Country and San Antonio, known for the Alamo and the River Walk.
Big Bend National Park, located in West Texas around a bend in the Rio Grande, and Padre Island National Sea Shore, situated on the Gulf of Mexico, are two of the best parks in the country to visit if you’re a nature lover.
1. Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is an absolute must for anyone visiting one of the most beautiful states in the United States. Austin, Texas is home to more than just state lawmakers; it’s also one of the Lone Star State’s most picturesque cities. On its 22 acres of land are memorials and monuments set in beautifully restored gardens. Three hundred feet are between the ground and the top of the State Capitol. There has been a National Historic Landmark designation since it was completed in 1888.
The tours are informative and exciting, teaching visitors about the history of the building and the state’s legal and governmental processes while introducing them to some landmarks on the grounds. There is a memorial to the Alamo and another to the Vietnam War within the State Capitol. A Visitor Center, the Governor’s Mansion, and the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge are all available for sightseeing. At night, those standing on the bridge above can see tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of Mexican free-tailed bats, flying out from under the structure.
2. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is among the largest park in the United States at over 800,000 acres, but it is also one of the least visited by less than 400,000 people each year. The Park is a one-of-a-kind destination for eco-tourists thanks to its location on the international boundary with Mexico. Big Bend National Park has many exciting activities and sights for tourists to enjoy. Stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and the Chihuahuan Desert may be had from the park.
Obtain a park map, browse the gift shop, and learn more about the area’s hiking trails by visiting the visitor center. Take a lovely drive through the park and go for a hike along the banks of the world-famous Rio Grande. Around 450 kinds of birds, hares, roadrunners, mountain cougars, and bears call Big Bend National Park home. Tent- and horseback-camping, as well as kayaking via Santa Elena Canyon, are also commonplace in Big Bend National Park.
3. Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore is a border between the Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico, and it’s just a short drive from Corpus Christi. The island is the most extended barrier island in the world, at 70 miles in length. Padre Island National Seashore is a national park with a fantastic location from which to take in the stunning scenery of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Padre Island National Seashore is located on the Central Flyway, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and a top Texas tourist attraction. Every year, 350 different bird species stop here. There are many of great things to do in the area, including the Junior Ranger Program, relaxing campgrounds, and gorgeous beaches. There is a visitor center at Padre Island National Seashore where you may get details on the beach and the hiking trails available there.
4. El Paso
El Paso, Texas, is a border town in the Wild West that combines the cuisines of Mexico with the historic architecture and the unique atmosphere of Texas. You can enjoy the colonial architecture by going on the El Paso Mission Trail or going to the famous Plaza Theater, both of which are located in the Downtown Historic District.
El Paso is a great place to take in some culture at the Museum of Art, wander through the Mexican Markets, and eat some delicious local cuisine. Discover one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, El Segundo Barrio, by going there. You can learn about the Hispanic past of the town from the stunning murals that can be found on the streets here.
5. Hamilton Pool
Hamilton Pool is an entirely natural spring where you can cool off from the heat of the area by taking a swim. Its water comes from an underground river that feeds the plants and streams around the main pool with fresh water. Because of its water, Hamilton Pool is part of a protected natural area, and plants and trees of all kinds have been able to grow well in the area.
Once upon a time, the pool was hidden in a limestone grotto deep underground. Now, it has broken free of that dome and is in a space that looks like a cave. From the edge of the overhang, a 50-foot-tall waterfall drops into the pool. This cools the water and gives visitors a pleasant surprise. This is one of those places you shouldn’t miss, especially if you’re looking for beautiful places in Texas!
6. El Capitan
El Capitan sits in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which spans the state line between Texas and New Mexico, is a dry and desolate mountain that spends most of the year but is occasionally blanketed in snow and covered in clouds. Hikers who make it to the summit of El Capitan, the eighth highest peak in Texas, are rewarded with a breathtaking view that extends for miles and miles and takes in the beauties of the desert below.
7. Rockport Beach
Rockport Beach is located just up the coast from South Padre Island and is known for its clean sandy beaches and gorgeous blue-wave shorelines. If you want to do something other than relaxing in the sun, you will have everything you need for the day. There are pavilions where you can have a picnic lunch and a walking route where you can further explore the area.
8. Bayou Bend Gardens
Since Miss Ima Hogg decided to establish her gardens in this location in 1925, the Bayou Bend Gardens in Houston have been the subject of rigorous trimming and have been well maintained ever since. She designed the formal gardens she cultivated to be placed to sit, take in nature, and have meaningful conversations, rather than displays of flora and animals to be observed from a distance. The gardens were laid out during the traditional Country Place period of the late 19th century, and they remain as beautiful as they were when they were first planted.
9. Space Centre Houston
One of the best sites to visit in Houston, Texas, regardless of your level of interest in space travel, is the Space Center Houston. It is a Smithsonian Affiliate aimed at getting people of all ages excited in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
NASA’s projects and missions, the history and purpose of space exploration, moon rocks, and artifacts from the Mercury and Apollo missions are all on display. Authentic Saturn V rocket displays, exhibits on space travel and astronaut training, cosplay opportunities, and live performances all await you here. Most critically, NASA’s Mission Control is located at Space Centre Houston. NASA’s space missions and flights are monitored here. Visiting Mission Control and the Johnson Space Center, where you might even run into real astronauts.
10. Dallas Museum of Art
If you plan to visit Dallas, Texas, consider checking out the Dallas Museum of Art. Over 24,000 pieces of art have been on display since it debuted in 1903. It is one of the largest museums in the United States and features works by American artists and those worldwide.
You can view works from various artistic movements, periods, and cultural representations in the Dallas Museum of Art’s permanent collection. Views of classical art can be had through the study of artifacts from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Artworks from antiquity in the Mediterranean, Africa, and Asia all have something unique to teach us about the creative spirit of the world. The European art exhibit features works from the 18th through the 20th centuries by famous artists such as Claude Monet.
11. Sea World San Antonio
You’ll have a great time at SeaWorld San Antonio if you decide to make San Antonio one of your Texas vacation stops. The park has a marine theme, so visitors may get up and personal with several species of marine life.
At SeaWorld San Antonio, visitors may see a wide variety of aquatic animals, including dolphins, seals, penguins, sharks, and orcas. Dry rides like the hyper coaster of the Steel Eel or the inverted roller coaster of the Great White are available, but several water rides are ideal for relieving the state’s oppressive heat.
12. The Alamo
A trip to Texas wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Alamo, one of the country’s most iconic historical landmarks. It was founded in 1744 as a Franciscan mission in the heart of modern-day San Antonio. They were part of a band of men fighting the Mexican army of 3,000 during the Texas War of Independence.
The battle cry “Remember the Alamo!” was used by Texan forces to commemorate the loss of all the Alamo’s defenders. This rallying cry inspired the state’s warriors to defeat Mexico and declare independence. The Alamo is becoming Texas’ most popular tourist attraction. Annually, it attracts over two million sightseers who want to see the landmark’s exterior and learn about the interests inside.
13. Texas State Fair
Since its founding in 1886, the Texas State Fair has been a place where community, agriculture, and education are celebrated in a fun, safe environment for all ages. It’s a community-focused nonprofit with a mission to protect Fair Park, a National Historic Landmark.
The fair lasts for a staggering twenty-four consecutive days, and there are plenty of exciting activities to partake in that exude genuine Texas spirit. Petting zoos, livestock displays, farming displays, free admission to the several Fair Park museums, and more are just some of the attractions available. You should see it if you happen to be in the state at the appropriate time.
14. Museum of Fine Arts Houston
Since 1900, expansions and renovations have improved and modernized the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Three buildings, a sculpture park, and a theatre are there. The buildings are Caroline Wiess Law Building, Audrey Jones Beck Building, and Nancy and Rich Kinder Building.
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston has pictures, drawings, sculptures, paintings, and Chinese, African-American, and Native American cultural items. 64,000 artworks from six continents and several genres give variation. You’ll witness mixed media, Renaissance art, mobiles, and impressionist art. Picasso’s Bacchanale and Monet’s Nympheas are tremendous numbers. The Sculpture Garden features the first Bean prototype and the Cloud Column by Anish Kapoor. The Museum of Fine Arts Houston has rotating exhibits year-round, so check them out if you’re in Texas.
15. Six Flags Over Texas
Six Flags Over Texas, located in Arlington, is the largest theme park in Texas (covering 213 acres). It is a popular tourist destination in Texas, especially among families with young children, though many brave adults also go there.
The Texas SkyScreamer at this Six Flags park is the world’s second-tallest roller coaster at 400 feet in height and is sure to have your heart racing. Among its many attractions are the New Texas Giant, the notorious Batman: The Ride, and a slew of Looney Tunes-themed diversion vehicles.
In addition to the coasters, visitors to this Six Flags can enjoy the many special events held throughout the year, such as country music concerts.
16. San Antonio River Walk
It is widely acknowledged across the United States that the San Antonio River Walk is one of the most exciting tourist destinations in the state of Texas. The walk covers a significant distance and is lined the entire way with places to shop, dine, and stay, among other businesses. It offers a one-of-a-kind perspective into the heart of San Antonio, thanks to its location slightly below street level.
Even though the walk is the most popular option, there is also the possibility of taking a riverboat cruise, which can include everything from simple sightseeing tours to more elaborate dinner tours.
17. The Sixth Floor Museum
The Sixth Floor Museum is placed on the 6th and 7th floors of the former Texas School Book Depository, now the Dallas County Administration Building. The Sixth Floor Museum chronicles JFK’s life, times, and death in 1960s America.
You’ll see his campaign and term, artifacts, footage, and photos. It detailed the assassination and the president’s legacy. The red brick building’s seventh-floor houses museum-related programs and exhibits. A bookshop, gift shop, and cafe are all on-site. Sixth Floor Museum has 45,000 pieces in the total collection. It’s a must-see for history buffs or interested tourists because it explains an event that transformed the nation’s history.
18. The Frontiers of Flight Museum
If you’re an aviation enthusiast looking for things to do in Texas, you should check out the Frontiers of Flight Museum. From its beginnings in 1988, the museum has grown to become Dallas’s and Texas’s preeminent aerospace exhibit. It can be found on Lemmon Avenue and is connected to the Smithsonian, approximately one hundred thousand square feet in size.
Some highlights of the Frontiers of Flight Museum’s collection include a full-scale replica of the Wright Flyer, the Apollo 7 Command Module, a Stearman PT-17 Kaydet Biplane, and pieces of the legendary Hindenburg airship. All told, you can explore 13 galleries, each focusing on a unique aspect of aviation history.
19. Houston Museum of Natural Science
Located in Houston’s Museum District, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is enormous, has tonnes of cool stuff to see, and features displays on anything from North American wildlife to Texas environment to Native American history and culture.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science has sixteen permanent exhibitions on its four floors. The Cockrell Butterfly Center has three humid tropical “rainforest” levels and hundreds of fluttering insects. The Morian Hall of Paleontology, with its two stories of fossils and prehistoric replicas, is tied for the title of most popular. Additionally, there is a planetarium, a mineral and gem exhibit, and a beautiful Faberge exhibit.
20. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park has magnificent and wide desert terrain. West of El Paso, by nearly 100 miles, the barren and hostile-looking land can appear scary, but it’s home to a diverse landscape, wildlife, and beautiful bodies of water.
The four tallest mountain peaks in the state of Texas are all found within the Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This includes the mountain that gives the area its name, Guadalupe Peak, which is a trek that is 8.5 miles long and takes a round trip of eight hours to reach.Guadalupe Mountains National Park has the world’s largest Permian fossil reef, 80 miles of hiking paths, and golden eagles despite its severe environment. There are so many locations to explore that you won’t run out of things to do.
21. Dallas World Aquarium
Discover the wonders of the oceans throughout the world without leaving Texas at all, thanks to the Dallas World Aquarium. It’s hardly an aquarium. It’s home to land animals, birds, and plants, including many native to river and sea parts of the world.
The Dallas World Aquarium is split into various sections, each offering something unique. Octopus, stingrays, eels, and other fish live in the tunnel’s 20,000-gallon tank. Birds from the Yucatan Peninsula are on display. You can get up close and personal with frogs, toads, and other reptiles is in South Africa. There are monkeys, manatees, toucans, and crocodiles in the living jungle and ocelots and Jabiru storks in the intriguing Mayan area.
22. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Located in Dallas, Texas, the 180,000-square-foot Perot Museum of Nature and Science is among the largest of its kind in the world. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science has 11 display halls, making it feel like three separate museums in one. It’s unique in that it offers a wide variety of exciting things to try, and it’s also built with care, receiving the highest possible rating from the Green Building Initiative.
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science features exhibits on topics as diverse as human evolution, dinosaur skeletons, earthquakes, bird flying and socializing, and the ecosystems of Texas. The T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall is an interactive game in the form of a scavenger hunt and is just one example of the museum’s exceptional displays. Whether you have kids or not, this is one of the best things to do in Texas if you have any interest in science.
23. South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center
If you plan to visit Texas, you shouldn’t pass up the South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center. With the goal of educating visitors and safeguarding dolphins via conservation, it provides guests with up-close encounters with the intelligent and friendly mammals that give the park its name.
Visitors can interact with various exhibits at the South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center, including touch tanks, aquariums, and other hands-on displays. The center’s most popular features include the hermit crab and starfish exhibit and daily presentations on marine mammals and other topics. Even better, you can take dolphin tours, where private boats take you out onto Laguna Madre Bay to see real dolphins in their natural habitat.
24. Kimbell Art Museum
The Kimbell Art Museum may be the most miniature art museum in Texas. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1965 and was conceived of and funded by Fort Worth’s affluent art collector Kay Kimbell. The museum’s mission is straightforward: it displays artwork, antiquities, and sculptures from all over the world to inspire lifelong respect for the arts in its visitors. Paintings by Picasso, El Greco, Matisse, Monet, and Rembrandt are on display with antiques from Africa, Asia, and Europe.
The Kimbell Art Museum is remarkably extensive for its size, housing 350 works of art. While most of the items date back to Europe and the classical era, the collection also includes a wide range of other resources, such as around 60,000 books.
25. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Located in East Dallas, The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardenand is an excellent place for history and wildlife fans to visit. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden feature 16 unique gardens and two historical buildings. The children’s garden alone features more than 150 fun and educational activities.
A wide variety of exotic trees, ferns, flowers, and shrubs from all over the world grow here, including more than 2,400 species of azaleas. The garden’s walks are dotted with sculptures that both decorate and provide aesthetic flair to the space. The magnificent DeGolyer Mansion, a striking hacienda in Spanish design, is the principal historical attraction of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
26. Fort Worth Stockyards
Fort Worth’s former moniker of “Cowtown” was inspired by its historic stockyards. This historic stockyard is the last of its kind in the United States. The Fort Worth Stockyards was a regular stop for cowboys, especially those who made their names in the industry by driving cattle. It was the last significant settlement along the lengthy Chisholm Trail in southern Texas to have access to adequate railroads, making it an important hub for exporting and importing livestock and beef.
Fort Worth Stockyards became more up-to-date as interstate highways made railroads unnecessary for livestock trading. There are now numerous places to visit in the area, including restaurants, stores, and even an indoor rodeo. Professional cowboys still put on shows at the stockyard, where curious visitors can see them drive cattle.
27. Nasher Sculpture Centre
Nasher Sculpture Centre is the proud home of a massive 55,000 square feet of space devoted exclusively to sculptures. Designed by husband-and-wife partnership Raymond and Nancy Nasher, it sits across from the Dallas Museum of Art. If you’re in Texas for the weekend, you should definitely check out what is often considered to be the most spectacular collection of contemporary sculptures in the world.
The Nasher Sculpture Centre houses almost 300 sculptures by artists such as Matisse, Picasso, and Rodin. Artworks of all sizes, from miniatures to monumental installations, are dispersed around the space and can be explored on self-guided or docent-led tours. You should also visit the 1.4-acre garden outside the Nasher Sculpture Centre, which houses 25 more works of art.
28. National Museum of the Pacific War
Among the many tourist destinations in Texas, the National Museum of the Pacific War stands out as a worthwhile and exciting option. It incorporates spectacular displays and memorabilia to pay tribute to veterans who served in the Pacific theatre during World War II. The entire six-acre site is 33,000 square feet in size. The museum is located in the building that formerly housed the Nimitz Museum.
It opened to the public in 2000 and featured luxuriously opulent displays that belie the museum’s focus on a topic of such royal importance. Artifacts, posters, photographs, and more are on exhibit in over ninety climate-controlled display cases. A theatre, 40 audio-visual displays, decommissioned weapons and equipment, and a reconstructed battlefield with troop carriers, tanks, and foxholes may all be found at the National Museum of the Pacific War.
29. San Antonio Botanical Garden
With many exciting places to visit in Texas, strolling through the San Antonio Botanical Garden is a lot of pleasure. It’s designed to be fun for the whole family, spreads out over 38 acres, and promotes plant literacy through amusement and conservationist education. Each season brings a new array of colorful flowers to the formal gardens, each with its distinctive fragrance. The enormous existing garden is further enriched by adding tropical plants, a Rose Garden, and a country area.
Explore the wide variety of vegetation, from native to exotic, in indoor exhibits and along the Texas Native Trail. Experience the entirety of the San Antonio Botanical Garden with the guidance of a knowledgeable guide. The WaterSaver Garden is an excellent resource for anyone thinking about designing and planting their garden at home.
30. Caverns of Sonora
If you’re a fan of odd, completely natural formations, visiting the Caverns of Sonora in Texas is a must. When cave explorer Jack Burch saw that visitors were damaging the cave’s natural rock formations in 1956, he set out to repair the damage by building routes, stairs, and railings.
The Sonoran Desert’s Caverns of Sonora formations are given funny names. Popcorn refers to the little mineral nodules that can be found dotting the cave walls. Soda straws are mineral tubes because of their hollow cylinder shape. Bacon refers to the stratified flowstone formed by water continually seeping through the ground. The caves are covered in these formations, making for a stunning display that almost transports you to a magical land far from Texas.
31. Fort Worth Botanic Garden
There is no need to go far to enjoy nature’s beauty, and the existence of botanical gardens in a city serves as a continual reminder of this fact. This 120-acre wonder in Dallas, Fort Worth Botanic Garden, which we have lately deemed to be among the most beautiful botanical gardens in the United States, boasts a variety of sparkling exhibits in addition to its 22 unique displays. If you’re curious about the horticultural history of the garden’s 2,500 plant varieties, you may take a tour of the nearby BRIT campus, which serves as the garden’s learning centre.
32. Medina River
This less-crowded 116-mile-long river, Medina River, which begins in the northwest of Bandera County and ends just southeast of San Antonio, is equally, if not more, as enjoyable as the Guadalupe River. Medina River has long been a popular destination for kayakers and rafters during the autumn months due to the presence of orange cedar, live oak, and limestone bluffs that mirror the spring-fed rapids. It would be a regret to miss Chamblee Falls on the North Prong, which features a larger waterfall 10 feet tall and a smaller waterfall just 4 feet tall.
33. Palo Duro Canyon
Considering its nickname, “Grand Canyon of Texas,” the Palo Duro Canyon should be high on your travel agenda. The canyon opens up gradually in the middle of the Texas Panhandle, beginning as a single gap and then becoming a plummeting cleft of brilliant red, tan, and brown strata. The Palo Duro Canyon in Texas is the second-longest and second-largest canyon in the United States, stretching 120 miles in length and 20 miles wide at its widest point, with an elevation change of 3,463 feet and a depth change of 800 feet.
It was formed when the Prairie Dog Town branch of the Red River split off, and it got its Spanish name from the mesquite and juniper trees that grew in the area. Folsom and Clovis’s residents have been in the area, mainly for bison and mammoth hunting, for the past 12,000 years or thereabouts. Kiowa, Apache, and Comanche peoples are not the only ones who have called Palo Duro home in recent history.
34. Fort Davis National Historic Site
Fort Davis is a well-preserved frontier fort. It was built in 1854 to safeguard passengers on the San Antonio – El Paso road against invaders. From 1867 through 1881, only black and blank soldiers served. Fort Davis was abandoned in 1891 after the Civil War.
It was reopened in 1867. It comprises about 20 well-preserved structures among the 100 remains, and five are decorated with period furnishings. The beds in the rebuilt barracks all bear the names of real people who lived there in 1884. To provide a more authentic feel, bugle calls are played frequently. If you’re a history buff, this is one of the best sites to see in Texas.
35. The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum
One of Texas’s most intriguing tourist attractions is the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum. It’s a natural, retired jack-up drilling rig that’s been turned into a tourist attraction for people who are fascinated by the lifestyle and working conditions of offshore oil rigs.
Houston, Texas, is known as the “oil capital of the world,” so it’s only natural that the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum would be situated close to the city’s central business district. The Offshore Energy Center manages this site, which provides a rare glimpse into the Ocean Star’s operations in 1969. There are videos, exhibitions, pieces of equipment, and even the pipe deck to view on your own time as you make your way through the rig’s three floors.
36. McDonald Observatory
For those passionate about the stars and planets, a trip to McDonald Observatory in Texas is a must. Situated on the University of Texas campus, it makes use of the state’s famously dark and clear skies.
McDonald Observatory hosts a variety of educational activities and programs throughout the year. It engages the local community of space enthusiasts with activities such as nighttime viewing events, sun viewing, and well-attended star parties. McDonald Observatory, a research facility, is home to several giant telescopes. The site also features the Hobby-Eberly Telescope, one of the largest in the world. Although you won’t be able to peer inside the most prized instruments, a guided tour will give you a close look at these massive telescopes.
37. Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake comprises several smaller lakes and swamps that, when combined, create a bayou that is 25,400 acres in size. The discovery of freshwater pearls in the mussels of the lake in 1910 brought the region to popularity and sparked a “pearl rush” in the state of Texas that lasted for three years.
Even though harvesters do not typically venture into the depths of Caddo Lake anymore, the lake still has mussels that can produce pearls. Instead, it has developed into one of the tourist attractions that can be found throughout the state of Texas.
The magnificent waters are adorned with bald cypress trees that have been draped in Spanish moss and gently graced by their presence. As you paddle around in your kayak, you can try your luck at seeing some unique spots and reptiles, go fishing, birdwatching, or investigate the local flora.
38. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
At its hometown site, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra gives performances on the stage, which is known worldwide. Their remarkable reputation can be attributed partly to the fact that their performances and acoustics are famous throughout the whole state of Texas.
The Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center is well-known for having outstanding acoustics due to the building’s design, similar to that of a shoebox. Because of the clever design of the venue’s interior, which has contributed to the venue’s popularity, each seat in the arena has a clear and unobstructed view of the stage. This is one of the reasons why the venue is so successful.
39. San Jacinto Monument
With a height of 570 feet and a base area of 125 feet squared, the San Jacinto Memorial holds the record for the world’s largest military monument. Built with a combination of concrete, stone, and steel, it has a total mass of 220 tonnes and features a lift to an observation deck at its summit. The San Jacinto Monument commemorates those who fought for Texas’s freedom, particularly at the Battle of San Jacinto.
You should also check out San Jacinto Battleground Historic State Park, where the San Jacinto Monument now resides. The building’s remarkable Art Deco architecture has earned its recognition as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
40. Sea Turtle, Inc.
Sea Turtle, Inc., which can be found on South Padre Island, is not one of the conventional tourist destinations in the state of Texas; yet, going there is a lot of fun! The non-profit organization mission is to rehabilitate injured sea turtles and return them to their natural habitats. In addition, the organization aims to inform the general public about the situation of sea turtles and the ongoing conservation efforts that are being made on their behalf.
You may expect to go away from Sea Turtle, Inc., which opened its doors in 1977 with a significant amount of new information. You will have access to instructional seminars, the opportunity to watch sea turtles swimming and recovering in large tanks, and the opportunity to tour the facility’s outside areas.
41. Mount Bonnell
The name “Mount Bonnell” may lead you to imagine a rugged mountainous landscape with cliffs and towering trees, but you can rest assured that this is not the case. Located within Covert Park, this well-traveled footpath has provided visitors with breathtaking views of Austin’s ever-evolving skyline since the 1850s. Visitors can hike up to the peak, about 775 feet above sea level, to take in stunning views, enjoy a picnic, or do both. The peak’s location, to the east of Lake Austin, is ideal for seeing the spectacular scenery.
42. Jacob’s Well
One of Texas’s more exciting and unusual attractions is Jacob’s Well. Located at the foot of a sizable rock formation, this circular blue pond features a sheer 30-foot vertical plunge on its upper surface. Underneath that, however, is a network of caves and caverns that, while dangerous, are ideal for exploration.
To the best of our knowledge, Jacob’s Well is the second largest underwater cave in the state. If you’re looking for a thrill while diving or swimming, Jacob’s Well is one of the top spots in Texas. Several divers have become stranded in the cave system over the years, so it’s essential to make sure you’re prepared before exploring it.
43. The Moody Gardens and Aquarium
The Moody Gardens and Aquarium is a theme park that spans a total area of 242 acres and features nine attractions, a hotel, a convention center, a beach, a lazy river, a rainforest zoo, and even a rope and zip line course! It is essentially a combination of several different tourist attractions in a single location.
Most tourists who come to Texas believe that it is well worth their money to go to The Moody Gardens and Aquarium, despite the admission rates being somewhat high. Visitors of all ages won’t know what to do first because there’s so much to do.
44. Hueco Tanks State Park
Hueco Tanks State Park is a state park that has an area of 860 acres and can be found around 30 miles north of El Paso. It gets its name from the enormous natural rock basins (huecos) that can be found all over the park. This historically significant habitat reopened as the city’s first state park in May of 2020, following its closure earlier that year due to a pandemic. It had been a spiritual haven for the indigenous peoples who drank the pure water that accumulated in the basin throughout their history.
45. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Enchanted Rock is a unique Texas attraction. The rock is an igneous rock intrusion, or pluton, consisting of a 425-foot-tall pink granite dome spanning 640 acres. Anglo and Spanish interpretations of Native American tradition gave the monolith its name, Enchanted Rock. The exterior rock contracts during hot days, causing the Enchanted Rock to quiver on cool evenings.
Scientific explanation adds to the lore. Little vernal water pools form in the rockface’s depressions, where shrimps and marine life take root until summer. This includes a tiny quillwort species found exclusively here. Enchanted Rock’s cave is one of the world’s longest granite talus caverns. It’s 1,500 feet long, packed with spiders, and has thick walls. If you’re courageous, investigate, and you’ll find the dome. Here you can see artifacts and spring-loving flora, including prickly pear, persimmons, pecans, and mesquite.
46. Lady Bird Lake
A section of the Colorado River, Lady Bird Lake, is named after Lyndon Johnson’s wife. It’s a reservoir that’s become very popular among Texans and flows over 416 acres of land. On one end, you’ll find hotels and private homes, and on the other, a public beach with plenty of bike lanes and hiking paths.
You can also cross the river into Austin and check out the city’s other parks that are linked together, as well as the various tourist traps lining the riverbank.
Want to take things to the next level? Lady Bird Lake welcomes a wide variety of watercraft, including personal watercraft, powered watercraft, and canoes and kayaks available for hire. Along its 1.1-mile length, the boardwalk offers a breathtaking panorama of the city. Lady Bird Lake is an excellent option if you’re seeking something to do in Texas that will help you relax.
47. Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo opened in 1909, has been going strong ever since, making it the longest continually running zoo in the state of Texas. When it opened in 1909, there were only a few animals; today, 42 different species call it home, and it is recognized as the fifth-best zoo in the United States.
The goal of the Fort Worth Zoo is to educate visitors about the importance of conserving wildlife and the mammals, reptiles, and birds they care for. The zoo is a world-class institution with various exhibits separated by animal kind. Seeing these endangered animals up close is a truly remarkable opportunity, as over 68 species are in danger of extinction in this area.
Fort Worth Zoo is unique among American zoos in that it is home to all four species of Great Apes (bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans), in addition to its many other exciting attractions. It also houses to one of the world’s most well-known and productive flamingo breeding colonies. In addition to African lions, penguins, hippos, cheetahs, giraffes, meerkats, and many other species await your observation.
48. Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Many of Texas’ points of interest are designed to offer visitors relief from the state’s harsh year-round heat. This is one of the reasons why the Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels is considered to be one of the most popular locations to go for entertainment in the state of Texas. Other reasons include the fact that it has a wide variety of rides and attractions. It has an extensive selection of activities that are appropriate for individuals of all ages, such as downhill racing slides, rapid tube slides, a heated lagoon, a water coaster, a lazy river, splash parks, and design activities for children.
49. Lost Maples State Natural Area
Lost Maples is the only maple forest in Texas, and it covers over 2,000 acres spread out throughout Bandera and Real counties. Its colors range from rust to gold to green, and it stands tall as the only maple forest in the state. After an afternoon of sightseeing, hikers can unwind around the fire with some hearty fare at the park’s campground near the Sabinal River, complete with 30 spacious sites. The hiking trails in the park are pristine and lined with steep limestones, sparkling streams, and verdant grasslands.
50. Bullock Texas State History Museum
One of the best places to visit in Texas if you’re interested in learning about Texas’s past is the Bullock Texas State History Museum. It was named after the state’s 38th lieutenant governor since it chronicles the history of the Lone Star State. Here, you can learn about and explore the state’s history through artifacts, information, and galleries dedicated to various significant events and locations.
The Bullock State History Museum houses more than 500 such items, including interactive displays, the largest IMAX screen in the state, a 4D theatre, and several audio-visual displays. You may see the original Goddess of Liberty statue atop the State Capitol dome and Edgar Mitchell’s actual spacesuit from the Apollo 14 flight. Popular displays include information about the Alamo, the state’s oil business, and the Tejano people. The hull of the shipwrecked La Belle from the 17th century is also on display.
51. Natural Bridge Caverns
The Natural Bridge Caverns are breathtaking. They are just one of the many lovely locations in Texas that merit a spot on your itinerary as a potential vacation destination. More than 10,000 stalactite formations may be seen within this network, the largest accessible one of its sort in the United States. King’s Throne is a wall that is forty feet high and is completely covered in stalactites.
The caves were a significant find and were given their name from the massive bridge of limestone that spanned the cave’s entrance at the height of sixty feet.
52. Dallas Zoo
A visit to the Dallas Zoo is a must for any traveler interested in wildlife while in Texas. It’s been around since 1888 and can be found on 106 acres in Marsalis Park. Because of this, it is the largest and oldest zoo in Texas. To top it all off, the Dallas Zoological Society operates the zoo for free!
The Dallas Zoo is home to over 406 animal species and over 2,000 unique animals spread across several habitats. The zoo has two main display areas, each dedicated to a different topic. Wilds of Africa and ZooNorth are the two options, with the Endangered Tiger Habitat, Otter Outpost, and Giants of the Savanna being among the highlights of each.
The Great Rift Valley is home to various animal species from Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. You can see them all from the comfort of a monorail on the exciting Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari.
53. Japanese Tea Garden
Looking for somewhere quiet and peace in Texas, the Japanese Tea Garden is a great option. It was once used as a quarry before city officials in San Antonio, Texas, chose to transform the area into a thriving, quiet park. They had a lily pond and garden built and sought advice from an expert Japanese family to make it seem more at home in Japan.
After Pearl Harbor, the attraction was transformed into a Chinese tea garden to minimize public anger, but the family was forcibly removed. If the conflict were to end, the building could be renamed and used for its original purpose. After being vandalized and ignored for quite some time, the city finally started working on repairing it in the early 2000s. Stunning features like koi ponds and waterfalls complement the recently built pagoda in this area.
54. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier can be found on the Texas Gulf Coast and is considered one of the most significant locations to visit if you are looking for a wide variety of touristy activities and a great deal of pleasure and entertainment.
The boardwalk is a beautiful spot to check out cafes, amusement rides, stores, games, and more, despite the hefty prices that are charged. The original structure of Pleasure Pier was constructed in the 1940s, but it was later swept away by Hurricane Carla in 1961. After being rebuilt in 2008, it suffered destruction at the hands of hurricanes Ike and Harvey in the following years. Since then, it has undergone yet another reconstruction so that it may keep providing its wonderful assortment of attractions.
55. Museum of the Weird
Most American dime museums closed down by the 1920s, leaving just the Museum of the Weird. Because of how rare it is, this one can be found just in Austin, Texas. The Museum of the Weird is filled with interesting and unusual artifacts.
A fee jees mermaid, the pickled and dried hand of glory from a real hung man, a shrunken head, a chicken with two chairs, a cyclops pig, and mummies are among the oddities on display. The Minnesota Iceman is a special darkroom in the Wax Museum that tells the story of a long-standing mystery.
There is a theatre at the Museum of the Weird where visitors can watch odd acts rotate around. One is a three-legged dog, one will hurt themself while holding a live wire, one will perform a classic circus act, and one will be a one-legged performer. At the very least, the museum plays true to its name, so if you have a passion for the bizarre, it should be on your itinerary.