35 Best Places to Visit in Texas

From sprawling national parks and historic sites to thriving cities brimming with energy, Texas promises something unique at every turn. Each destination reveals a different aspect of Texas life, showcasing its rich heritage, modern vibrancy, and stunning landscapes.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Texas delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s a place that invites travelers to dive in and discover its endless charm.

The Alamo

Our Rating: 8.4/10

The Alamo holds a significant place in American history. Originally established in 1718 as the first mission in the region, it later became the site of the famous 1836 battle during the Texas Revolution. Visitors can explore the legendary grounds and view the Alamo Exhibit, which showcases priceless artifacts donated by musician and history enthusiast Phil Collins.

Displayed in the Ralston Family Collections Center, these items offer a glimpse into the courage and sacrifices of those who defended the mission. The area also features bronze statues of key figures, enhancing the immersive experience and providing insight into the human side of this iconic story.

Big Bend National Park

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Big Bend National Park is a true gem for lovers of the great outdoors. This vast wilderness boasts breathtaking landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains to expansive desert fields. Hiking enthusiasts will revel in the challenge and beauty of trails like the Lost Mine Trail, offering stunning panoramic views.

For those seeking water adventures, the mighty Rio Grande is a perfect spot for canoeing and kayaking, where the river cuts through magnificent canyons such as Santa Elena. The park’s remoteness lends itself to amazing stargazing opportunities, with some of the darkest night skies in the United States.

Space Center Houston

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Space Center Houston, located at 1601 NASA Parkway, is a thrilling destination for space enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can experience the awe of human space exploration through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts. One of the highlights is the Starship Gallery, where guests can get an up-close look at flown spacecraft and learn about pivotal moments in space history.

Travelers should not miss the chance to walk inside the Skylab Trainer, offering a glimpse into the life of astronauts as they prepared for extended missions. Additionally, guests can touch a real Moon rock, an experience that leaves many inspired by mankind’s lunar achievements.

Texas State Capitol

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This iconic building, which towers over the city of Austin, is even taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Visitors can roam the grand halls on a free guided tour, immersing themselves in the rich history and political significance of the site.

Beyond the guided experience, guests often enjoy walking the beautifully landscaped Capitol grounds, taking in monuments and statues that honor Texas history. Photography enthusiasts find ample opportunities to capture stunning images both inside and outside this monumental structure.

San Antonio River Walk

Our Rating: 9.2/10

San Antonio River Walk is a must-see for anyone visiting Texas. Spanning 15 miles, it features lively paths lined with restaurants, shops, and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy a riverboat cruise, taking in sights and learning the area’s rich history.

The walk is punctuated with landmarks like the San Fernando Cathedral, and there are abundant hiking and biking trails.

The Sixth Floor Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Sixth Floor Museum is a poignant destination rich with American history. Visitors are transported back to 1963, diving into the events surrounding President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. The museum resides in the Texas School Book Depository, offering exhibits packed with artifacts, photographs, and films from that fateful day.

Each display piece serves as a tangible connection to history, creating a compelling narrative that captures the era’s atmosphere. Interactive audio guides enhance the self-guided tour, providing context and insights that deepen the experience.

Palo Duro Canyon

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Palo Duro Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” offers dramatic vistas and rich history. Visitors can explore its vibrant red rock formations on numerous hiking trails, each providing unique perspectives on the canyon’s panoramic beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy mountain biking or taking a scenic drive, which provides easy access to stunning viewpoints throughout the park.

Rappelling and zip-lining offer thrilling adventures, perfect for families and those seeking a bit of adrenaline. At the canyon’s amphitheater, attendees experience breathtaking performances under the stars, making it a distinctive cultural attraction.

Fort Worth Stockyards

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Fort Worth Stockyards offer a genuine taste of the Old West, where the streets buzz with cowboy culture. Visitors can explore the historic alleys lined with preserved buildings, each echoing stories from a bygone era. Taking a trail ride on horseback is a favored activity here, providing a glimpse into Texas’s ranching legacy.

Live music fills the air, showcasing Western Swing, Outlaw Country, and Texas Blues, immersing visitors in authentic sounds. Saloon doors creak open to lively bars serving up refreshing brews, making the Stockyards a perfect destination for those seeking to step back into Western history with a modern twist.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Hamilton Pool Preserve, located 40 minutes from Austin, Texas, is a stunning natural swimming hole. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of swimming beneath a limestone cliff that creates a waterfall into the jade-green pool below. Reservations are required year-round and must be made in advance.

Aside from swimming, visitors can explore the surrounding hiking trails that wind through the scenic terrain. The trails provide the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of rugged landscapes and diverse plant life.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a destination that showcases the highest peaks in Texas. Hikers can trek through diverse landscapes, discover fossilized coral reefs, and walk among the gypsum sand dunes. The park is renowned for its extensive Permian fossil reef, offering a unique glimpse into ancient marine life.

With a variety of trails, visitors can explore dramatic canyons, while the Chihuahuan Desert offers a stark, beautiful contrast to the lush diversity found higher up. As night falls, the skies reveal a stunning canopy of stars, perfect for stargazing.

Dallas Arboretum

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The Dallas Arboretum, spanning 66 acres, presents a breathtaking experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst vibrant flora. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal spectacle of Dallas Blooms, a festival featuring thousands of blooming flowers each spring.

Beyond the blooms, the garden hosts a seasonal fall festival with locally grown pumpkins and gourds, making it a favorite autumn destination. Year-round, the arboretum provides interactive garden displays and educational exhibits for all ages.

South Padre Island

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Here, visitors can enjoy pristine beaches with gentle waves, perfect for a leisurely swim or sunbathing. The fishing opportunities are exceptional, with various expeditions from deep-sea adventures to simple pier fishing that cater to all skill levels.

Water sports are plentiful, providing adrenaline-fueled adventures like windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s rich birdwatching opportunities, especially at the Laguna Madre area where numerous migratory birds can be observed.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Our Rating: 8.7/10

As one of Texas’s premier natural attractions, Natural Bridge Caverns promises an unforgettable subterranean adventure. Located a short drive from San Antonio, these expansive caverns reveal a stunning underground world.

Above ground, the adventure continues with gem and fossil mining, offering a hands-on experience that captivates all ages. Visitors can also navigate the unique outdoor maze or test their mettle on the ropes course. These engaging activities provide a thrilling complement to the cavern exploration.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is known for its massive pink granite dome. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, offering both challenging climbs and leisurely walks. Hiking the summit trail rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country. Climbers can also take on the rock faces, making it a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.

The park is an International Dark Sky Park, ideal for stargazing. Visitors can also enjoy camping, with designated spots for overnight stays, allowing for a deeper connection to nature. Bird watchers and nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities to witness the area’s diverse wildlife.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Our Rating: 9.1/10

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a marvel that captivates visitors of all ages. It houses diverse exhibits that invite exploration and curiosity. Interactive displays allow guests to simulate an earthquake and analyze a basketball jump shot, making science engaging and fun.

The dinosaur hall captivates with towering skeletons, while the gems and minerals exhibit dazzles with natural splendor. Explorations extend beyond Earth into space, with captivating presentations on the universe.

Zilker Botanical Garden

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Zilker Botanical Garden is a beautiful spot where visitors can enjoy nature at its finest. Situated in the heart of Zilker Metropolitan Park, this 28-acre space is filled with themed gardens like the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, which provides a serene atmosphere influenced by traditional Japanese landscaping.

The Hartman Prehistoric Garden takes guests back in time with its dinosaur sculptures and fossil exhibits surrounded by plant life. Regular tours are available every second Saturday, providing insights into the garden’s wide array of plants, including collections of herbs, succulents, and cacti.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Houston Museum of Natural Science charms visitors with its expansive exhibitions that cover everything from ancient history to the wonders of the universe. The museum is an educational gem since its founding in 1909. Visitors can explore intriguing galleries such as the fascinating dinosaur hall, which allows one to walk through prehistoric times surrounded by massive skeletal replicas.

The planetarium offers awe-inspiring views of the cosmos, showcasing immersive shows that provide a deeper appreciation for the universe. Science buffs will appreciate the exhibits on chemistry and physics, featuring interactive displays that make learning a tactile experience.

Texas Hill Country

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Texas Hill Country is rich with diverse activities and attractions. A must-see is Jacob’s Well, one of Texas’s iconic swimming holes, with an inviting artesian spring and a deep, clear pool perfect for a refreshing swim. The depth adds a touch of thrill as visitors leap into its cool waters. Exploring Enchanted Rock offers a breathtaking experience for hiking enthusiasts.

This massive pink granite dome invites exploration on trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking to the summit is a rewarding adventure and a fantastic opportunity for photography.

Caddo Lake State Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Caddo Lake State Park stands as a unique destination with its hauntingly beautiful landscapes. Visitors can explore the mysterious bayous on a canoe or kayak, gliding beneath ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. The park’s serene waters are perfect for both amateur and seasoned anglers aiming to catch catfish, crappie, and bass.

Hiking trails wind through the park, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and marvel at the lush vegetation. For those seeking a touch of history, staying in one of the rustic cabins built in the 1930s adds a charming experience.

The Dallas World Aquarium

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Dallas World Aquarium is a unique attraction that hosts a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial life. Set in the heart of Dallas, this venue is more than just an aquarium—it features a multi-level experience beginning with a lush rainforest. Visitors are greeted by vibrant birds like toucans and Cocks-of-the-rock as they explore the carefully recreated ecosystems.

Descending into the depths, guests find themselves surrounded by marine life, including Japanese crabs, seadragons, and jellyfish. The aquarium doesn’t just focus on common species; it also participates in conservation efforts, housing threatened or endangered animals.

USS Lexington

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The USS Lexington, also known as the “Blue Ghost,” is a floating museum in Corpus Christi, Texas. This celebrated WWII aircraft carrier invites visitors to explore its storied past. Touring the vessel is an engaging experience with exhibits that bring wartime history to life. Visitors are invited to step into the shoes of a sailor and wander through the ship’s intricate passageways.

Along the way, they will discover 1940s living quarters and vintage aircraft on the flight deck. For a dose of adrenaline, try the flight simulator that replicates a fighter jet launch. Interactive displays and educational programs enrich the experience for guests of all ages.

Watson Rooftop Bar

Our rating: 9.2/10

1Watson Rooftop Bar offers stunning views of the River Walk, Main Plaza, and San Fernando Cathedral. The menu features Texas-inspired favorites such as smoked brisket tacos and mangonada ceviche, crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

Guests enjoy an industrial-chic setting with vibrant energy, perfect for both casual outings and celebrations. A well-curated selection of local wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails adds to the experience.

The Menil Collection

Our Rating: 8.9/10

The Menil Collection showcases a wide-ranging array of art from the ancient to the modern. Visitors can explore remarkable European works by Surrealists and Dadaists, as well as captivating pieces from African and Oceanic cultures. The museum provides an immersive experience and sparks curiosity through its thoughtfully curated exhibitions.

Art lovers can roam through serene galleries and take in works that span time and continents, allowing them to connect with diverse artistic visions. Exploring the grounds offers a peaceful retreat, where the architectural design harmonizes with green spaces, ensuring a fulfilling visit.

Barton Springs Pool

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Barton Springs Pool in Austin is a must-visit for anyone seeking a refreshing outdoor experience. This spring-fed pool boasts crystal-clear waters that maintain a temperature between 68 and 74 degrees year-round, providing a perfect spot for a swim any time of the year. The natural setting offers a unique atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Visitors can enjoy the grassy surroundings for lounging, picnicking, or simply soaking up the sun. The pool area is expansive, giving swimmers plenty of room to explore and find their own space.

Cadillac Ranch

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo is a quirky roadside attraction featuring ten half-buried Cadillacs, nose-down in a row, creating a striking visual along the historic Route 66. Created in 1974 by Stanley Marsh 3 and the Ant Farm art collective, it’s an ever-changing canvas where visitors can contribute to the art by adding their own spray-painted designs.

People are encouraged to bring their creativity, transforming the cars with vibrant colors and bold designs. This interactive experience makes each visit unique, as the artwork evolves with new layers of paint.

Arlington Entertainment District

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Arlington’s Entertainment District is home to the famous AT&T Stadium, where the Dallas Cowboys play, offering exciting football games and guided tours showcasing its remarkable architecture and history. Sports enthusiasts also flock to Choctaw Stadium for Texas Rangers baseball games, where the atmosphere is electric with cheering fans.

The district’s amusement parks, Six Flags Over Texas and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, deliver endless excitement. The parks offer adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and water slides.

SeaWorld San Antonio

Our Rating: 8.5/10

SeaWorld San Antonio stands out with attractions like the Wave Breaker: The Rescue Coaster. This riveting ride simulates a jet-ski adventure, immersing guests in a mission to help save an animal alongside the SeaWorld rescue team. Families can enjoy the playful antics of sea lions and marvel at the graceful movements of dolphins during the engaging performances.

The encounters with these marine animals are both educational and entertaining, providing a closer look at the ocean’s wonders. For those looking to cool off from the Texas heat, Aquatica San Antonio offers exhilarating water rides like the high-speed Taumata Racer.

Moody Gardens

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Moody Gardens is an attraction that blends education and entertainment. Visitors can explore the stunning Rainforest Pyramid, which houses exotic plants and animals from around the world. The Aquarium Pyramid offers guests an opportunity to view fascinating ocean creatures, from playful penguins to colorful tropical fish.

For an exhilarating experience, check out the Discovery Pyramid, which features engaging science exhibits. The 3D and 4D theaters at Moody Gardens provide an immersive movie-watching adventure, enhancing the storytelling with advanced visual effects.

Austin City Limits Live

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Austin City Limits Live is a prime destination for music lovers. Known for its superb acoustics, this venue hosts an array of live performances, from celebrated musicians to rising stars. The theater itself is modern, providing an intimate setting that enhances every musical note and lyric.

Seating is designed to ensure all attendees have a clear view of the stage, allowing them to immerse fully in the concert experience. A trip here isn’t just about the show; fans can explore the rich memorabilia that captures the essence of Austin’s vibrant music scene.

Mustang Island

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Mustang Island offers countless activities for visitors. Sunbathing and swimming at Port Aransas Beach are perfect for those wanting to relax by the shore. The waters are also ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering a chance to explore the coastline from a different perspective.

Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in hopes of catching redfish, trout, and more. Bird watchers will find the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center a must-visit, where a diverse range of bird species can be observed, especially during migration seasons.

Texas Wine Trails

Our Rating: 8.3/10

The Texas Hill Country Wine Trail offers a delightful journey through vineyards where over 40 wineries participate during events like the Texas Wine Month Passport in October.

Visitors can savor diverse wine tastings, enjoy scenic views, and attend festive celebrations. Each stop provides unique blends and the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable vintners.

Historic Downtown Grapevine

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Anchored by the bustling Main Street, the district invites exploration with its preserved architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Guests can enjoy local winery tasting rooms, perfect for sampling regional flavors. The Grapevine Vintage Railroad promises a nostalgic journey, capturing the essence of vintage travel.

Art enthusiasts will find delight in the numerous galleries dotting the area. The Palace Arts Center hosts an array of performances, providing a cultural feast for theater-goers. For families, the Grapevine Glockenspiel Clock Tower is a must-see, offering whimsical shows that entertain both young and old.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a fascinating destination for outdoor enthusiasts and dinosaur lovers alike. Visitors can explore over 20 miles of scenic trails that wind through diverse landscapes, ideal for hiking and mountain biking. One of the main attractions is the opportunity to walk in the actual footprints of dinosaurs, preserved in the riverbed, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

The Paluxy River provides a refreshing spot to swim, fish, or paddle, attracting families looking for a day of fun by the water. Camping sites are available for those who wish to extend their adventure overnight.

Blanton Museum of Art

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Blanton Museum of Art houses an impressive collection that spans continents and centuries. Visitors can explore over 21,000 works, including European paintings, Latin American art, and modern masterpieces.

The museum also showcases Ellsworth Kelly’s “Austin,” a stunning architectural installation that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Art aficionados will appreciate the rotating exhibits that continually refresh the visitor experience. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the works and the artists behind them.

The San Jacinto Monument

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The San Jacinto Monument is as a tribute to those who fought for Texas’ independence from Mexico. Rising to a staggering height, this architectural marvel is the world’s tallest masonry column. Visitors can explore the monument’s observation deck, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, including the bustling Houston Ship Channel.

The San Jacinto Museum located within the monument offers fascinating exhibits detailing the pivotal events of the Texas Revolution. From iconic artifacts to interactive displays, there’s much to discover at this historic site.

Texas stands as a state of endless possibilities, where rich history, modern cities, and stunning natural beauty come together to create unforgettable experiences. Each visit reveals a new side of its charm, inviting travelers to explore even deeper. It’s a destination that captures the spirit of adventure and leaves a lasting impression.