bigtravelbuzzTexas is a state located in the southern region of the United States. It is the second-largest state in the United States both in terms of land area and population. Texas is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and beautiful natural attractions, such as its vast deserts, rolling hills, and miles of coastline.
Places to Visit in Texas
Some popular places to visit in Texas include:
Austin: the state capital and home to numerous music festivals, cultural events, and a thriving food and drink scene.
San Antonio: famous for its historic Alamo and River Walk, as well as the vibrant arts and culture scene.
Houston: the largest city in Texas and home to the Space Center Houston, the Museum of Fine Arts, and numerous parks and gardens.
Dallas: a major business and cultural hub, known for its museums, shopping, and nightlife.
Big Bend National Park: a stunning desert landscape that offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and stargazing.
Padre Island National Seashore: a 70-mile stretch of protected coastline with pristine beaches and diverse wildlife.
Best Time To Visit Texas
The best time to visit Texas depends on what activities you plan to do and which region you plan to visit. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and many outdoor festivals take place during this time. However, summer is a popular time to visit Texas, especially for families with children on summer break. Winter can be a good time to visit Texas if you plan to take advantage of the state’s many indoor attractions and cultural events.
Things to Do in Texas
Texas is a vast and diverse state with plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Texas:
Visit the Alamo: This iconic Texas landmark is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in the state’s rich past.
Explore Big Bend National Park: This expansive park is a nature lover’s paradise, with hiking trails, scenic drives, and diverse wildlife.
Take a stroll down the San Antonio River Walk: This charming walkway along the San Antonio River features shops, restaurants, and beautiful scenery.
See the Houston Space Center: This attraction offers a fascinating look at space exploration and is sure to be a hit with science lovers.
Visit the State Capitol in Austin: This impressive building is the heart of Texas government and offers tours for visitors to learn more about the state’s history and politics.
See the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: This stunning garden features beautiful blooms and lush greenery, making it the perfect place for a peaceful stroll.
Attend a rodeo: Texas is known for its love of rodeos, and there are plenty of events held throughout the state for visitors to experience this unique aspect of Texan culture.
Visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: This fun-filled amusement park offers rides, games, and plenty of other attractions for visitors of all ages.
Explore the natural wonders of Palo Duro Canyon: This stunning canyon in the Texas Panhandle offers hiking trails, camping, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy the beaches of South Padre Island: This popular vacation destination offers miles of pristine beaches and plenty of water sports and other activities for visitors to enjoy.
How to get around in Texas
Getting around in Texas largely depends on where you are and what your mode of transportation is. Here are some options for getting around in Texas:
Car: Texas is a car-friendly state, and renting a car is a popular option for visitors. Major car rental companies are available at airports and in many cities throughout the state.
Public transportation: In larger cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin, public transportation systems like buses and trains are available. However, these systems may be less extensive or non-existent in smaller towns and rural areas.
Uber/Lyft: Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in many parts of Texas, especially in larger cities.
Taxis: Taxis are also available in larger cities, although they may be less convenient and more expensive than ridesharing services.
Bike rentals: Some cities like Austin and San Antonio have bike rental services available, which can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.
Walking: In some areas, especially in urban centers like downtown Dallas and Austin, walking can be a convenient and enjoyable way to get around.
Domestic flights: If you’re traveling long distances within the state, flying between cities may be an option. Major airlines like Southwest, American, and United serve many airports throughout Texas.
Where to eat in Texas
Texas is famous for its delicious and diverse cuisine, from barbecue to Tex-Mex to seafood. Here are some popular places to eat in Texas:
Franklin Barbecue – Austin: This famous barbecue joint has a line out the door every day, but it’s worth the wait for their mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausage.
The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation – Houston: This Tex-Mex restaurant has been a Houston institution since 1973, serving up fajitas, enchiladas, and margaritas.
Lockhart Smokehouse – Dallas: Another iconic barbecue spot, Lockhart Smokehouse serves up juicy brisket, ribs, and sausage, along with classic sides like mac and cheese and pinto beans.
Boudro’s – San Antonio: Located on the famous River Walk, Boudro’s serves up upscale Tex-Mex dishes like tableside guacamole, blackened prime rib, and shrimp and grits.
The Salt Lick – Driftwood: This popular barbecue joint is located in the Texas Hill Country outside Austin and serves up some of the best smoked meats around, along with homemade sides like potato salad and coleslaw.
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant – Galveston: This seafood restaurant has been a Galveston staple since 1911, serving up fresh Gulf Coast seafood like shrimp, oysters, and crab cakes.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse – Houston: If you’re in the mood for a high-end steak dinner, head to Pappas Bros. for prime steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list.
These are just a few options – there are countless other delicious restaurants to try in Texas!
Famous street stalls in Texas
Texas is famous for its food trucks and street food scene, where you can find a variety of delicious eats on the go. Here are some of the most popular street stalls in Texas:
Torchy’s Tacos – Austin: Torchy’s started as a food truck and now has locations throughout Texas. They serve up creative and delicious tacos with unique fillings like fried avocado, Jamaican jerk chicken, and ahi tuna.
The Original Hot Dog Shop – Houston: This classic hot dog stand has been serving up all-beef hot dogs and chili dogs since 1923, along with onion rings and homemade root beer.
Chi’Lantro BBQ – Austin: This Korean-Mexican fusion food truck is known for their famous kimchi fries, which are topped with caramelized kimchi, grilled meats, cheese, and a variety of sauces.
Gourdough’s – Austin: This food truck serves up over-the-top gourmet donuts, like the Mother Clucker (a fried chicken sandwich on a donut bun) and the Black Out (a chocolate donut topped with brownie batter, fudge, and chocolate chips).
Cane Rosso – Dallas: This pizza truck serves up Neapolitan-style pizzas with creative toppings like smoked brisket, roasted jalapenos, and truffle oil.
The Mighty Cone – Austin: This food truck serves up fried food in a unique way – they wrap it in a tortilla cone with sauces and toppings. Try the Hot & Crunchy Chicken Cone or the Shrimp & Avocado Cone.
Tacos Tierra Caliente – Houston: This taco truck serves up delicious, authentic Mexican street tacos with a variety of fillings like carne asada, pastor, and lengua.
These are just a few of the many great street stalls and food trucks in Texas – there are plenty more to discover!
Where to stay in Texas
Luxury accommodation
Texas is home to a variety of luxury accommodations, ranging from upscale hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some top picks for luxury places to stay in Texas:
The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston – Houston: This luxury hotel features lavish guest rooms, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options, including Mastro’s Steakhouse.
The Joule – Dallas: This luxury hotel features modern and stylish guest rooms, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options, including CBD Provisions.
The St. Regis Houston – Houston: This luxurious hotel features elegant guest rooms, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options, including The Remington Restaurant.
Hotel Emma – San Antonio: This luxury hotel is housed in a converted 19th-century brewery and features stylish guest rooms, multiple dining options, and a rooftop pool.
Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas – Dallas: This luxury resort features spacious guest rooms, multiple dining options, and a full-service spa, along with two golf courses and multiple swimming pools.
These are just a few examples of the many luxury accommodations available throughout Texas.
Where to stay in Texas
Budget accommodation
Texas has a range of affordable and budget-friendly accommodation options available. Here are some top picks for budget accommodation in Texas:
HI Austin Hostel – Austin: This budget-friendly hostel is located on the shores of Lady Bird Lake and offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations.
The Local Hostel – Houston: This hostel is located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District and offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations.
Motel 6 – San Antonio: Motel 6 has several locations throughout San Antonio and offers affordable rooms with basic amenities.
Days Inn by Wyndham – Dallas: Days Inn by Wyndham has several locations throughout Dallas and offers affordable rooms with free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast.
Red Roof Inn – Fort Worth: Red Roof Inn has several locations throughout Fort Worth and offers budget-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV.
These are just a few examples of the many budget accommodation options available throughout Texas.
Travel Tips Texas
Here are some travel tips for visiting Texas:
Plan your trip ahead of time: Texas is a large state with many attractions and destinations, so it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary ahead of time to make the most of your trip.
Consider the weather: Texas can have extreme weather conditions, so be sure to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
Rent a car: While Texas has public transportation options, renting a car can make it easier to get around and explore the state at your own pace.
Try the local cuisine: Texas is known for its delicious barbecue, Tex-Mex, and other regional specialties, so be sure to try some of the local cuisine while you’re there.
Don’t miss the outdoor attractions: Texas has many beautiful outdoor attractions, including national and state parks, lakes, and beaches, so be sure to take advantage of the great outdoors while you’re there.
Take in the local culture: Texas has a rich cultural history and many unique cultural attractions, so be sure to take in some of the local music, art, and other cultural experiences while you’re there.
Be prepared for long drives: Texas is a big state, so be prepared for long drives if you plan to visit multiple destinations.
Be respectful: Texans are known for their friendly hospitality, but it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and culture while you’re there.