Texas
What to do in Texas
Itineraries
Activities
Trails
Points of Interest
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Texas is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, with temperatures typically between 60-80°F (15-29°C). These seasons offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities, wildflower viewing, and festivals, with fewer crowds and more comfortable humidity levels. While summer (June to August) is perfect for beach and water activities, it can be very hot, often over 90°F (32°C). Winter (December to February) is cooler and suitable for city visits and holiday events but isn’t ideal for outdoor water activities.
If you are planning a trip to Big Bend National Park, you’ll want to go in the spring or fall for the best weather. For those looking for winter sports, try the panhandle of Texas in the winter months.
Things to do in Texas
- Visit the Houston Rodeo in the spring.
- Hike to the highest point at Guadalupe Peak in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
- Go to the San Antonio River Walk.
- Explore the Alamo near San Antonio.
- Enjoy an excursion to the Natural Bridge Caverns.
- Visit the Texas Hill Country.
- Go river rafting in New Braunfels.
- Relax at one of the many beaches such as South Padre Island or Galveston Beach.
- Hike at Palo Duro Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of Texas".
Where to go in Texas
National & State Parks
Texas NPS Sites: https://home.nps.gov/state/tx/index.htm
Texas State Park Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/
Major Cities
Amarillo
Amarillo, located in the Texas Panhandle, offers a mix of rich history and unique attractions. Visit the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, explore cowboy culture at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, and snap photos at Cadillac Ranch. Don’t miss hearty Texas fare at The Big Texan Steak Ranch. Amarillo is a true taste of Texas hospitality and adventure.
Austin
Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin is a hub for creativity and culture. Visit the Texas State Capitol, kayak on Lady Bird Lake, and explore the vibrant food truck scene. Don’t miss live music on Sixth Street or at one of the city’s many festivals.
Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers beautiful beaches, water sports, and attractions like the Texas State Aquarium and the historic USS Lexington. With fresh seafood and a laid-back vibe, it’s a perfect destination for relaxation and coastal fun.
Dallas/Ft.Worth
This metropolitan area is rich in attractions, from the Dallas Museum of Art and the historic Dealey Plaza to Fort Worth’s Stockyards, where you can experience authentic cowboy culture.
El Paso
Located in West Texas, El Paso offers stunning desert landscapes and a unique blend of Texan and Mexican cultures. The Franklin Mountains State Park and delicious local cuisine are highlights.
Galveston
Galveston boasts sandy beaches, a historic Strand District, and family-friendly attractions like Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Waterpark. This charming island city combines seaside relaxation with rich history and vibrant culture.
Houston
As one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., Houston offers world-class museums, a thriving culinary scene, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center. It’s a great destination for families and art enthusiasts alike.
Lubbock
Lubbock, known as the birthplace of music legend Buddy Holly, offers a rich blend of cultural and outdoor attractions. With its thriving wine industry, Texas Tech University, and iconic West Texas sunsets, Lubbock is a vibrant destination full of charm and creativity.
Plano
Plano, a thriving suburb of Dallas, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, diverse dining, and upscale shopping. With scenic parks, vibrant cultural festivals, and a growing tech hub, it’s a perfect blend of modern living and community spirit.
San Antonio
Home to the historic Alamo and the picturesque River Walk, San Antonio combines history with modern charm. Enjoy a river cruise, explore the Pearl District, and indulge in Tex-Mex cuisine.
South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a beach lover’s paradise, known for its sandy shores, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. Perfect for families and spring breakers alike, it offers dolphin-watching tours, eco-adventures, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
Waco
Waco is famous for its Magnolia Market, a hub of shopping, dining, and design led by Chip and Joanna Gaines. The city also offers rich history, with attractions like the Dr Pepper Museum and the beautiful Cameron Park.
Where to Stay
Major Airports
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in Dallas
- Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston
- William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) in Austin
- Dallas Love Field (DAL) in Dallas
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT) in San Antonio
Texas Basics
Austin
Central
TX
Southwest
Bluebonnet
Mockingbird
Lonestar State
Houston