Big Bend National Park, located in southwest Texas, is renowned for its stunning desert landscape, rugged mountains, and the winding Rio Grande River that forms the natural border between the United States and Mexico. The park spans over 800,000 acres and offers a diverse range of ecosystems, from the Chihuahuan Desert to lush river valleys and high-elevation forests. Visitors can explore over 150 miles of hiking trails, enjoy scenic drives, and partake in activities such as bird watching, stargazing, and river rafting.
The Alamo Mission in San Antonio, Texas, USA, is a historic Spanish mission and fortress compound founded in the 18th century by Roman Catholic missionaries. Known simply as "The Alamo," it played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, most famously during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836 when a small group of Texian defenders held out against the Mexican Army.
The San Antonio River Walk in San Antonio, Texas, is a vibrant and picturesque network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, located one story beneath the streets of downtown. Known for its lush landscapes, charming stone bridges, and bustling atmosphere, the River Walk is lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The area also features cultural and historical attractions, such as the Arneson River Theatre and the historic missions, which are part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas is a stunning natural preserve known for its striking geological features and diverse ecosystems. The park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet, offering breathtaking views and challenging hiking opportunities. Visitors can explore a variety of trails that wind through rugged canyons, lush forested areas, and expansive desert landscapes. The park also boasts significant fossil deposits and is a haven for wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and numerous bird species.
Space Center Houston, located in Houston, Texas, serves as the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center. This premier science and space exploration learning center offers a variety of educational exhibits and interactive experiences. Visitors can explore artifacts from space missions, view spacecraft, and even tour NASA's facilities to see where astronauts train. Highlights include the Saturn V rocket, the Apollo Mission Control Center, and the Space Shuttle replica Independence mounted on a Boeing 747.
The Fort Worth Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas, is a historic district that offers a glimpse into the city's rich cattle-driving history. Known for its well-preserved Western heritage, the area features brick walkways, wooden corrals, and historic buildings that transport visitors back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Stockyards host daily cattle drives, rodeos, and a variety of Western-themed shops, restaurants, and museums.
The Fort Worth Water Gardens is a striking urban park located in downtown Fort Worth, Texas. Designed by renowned architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee, the park opened in 1974 and covers 4.3 acres. It features three distinct water installations: the aerating pool with its refreshing sprays, the quiet pool surrounded by cypress trees, and the active pool, which is a dynamic, cascading water feature where visitors can descend steps to the base.
Palo Duro Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Texas Panhandle near the city of Amarillo. Stretching approximately 120 miles long, 20 miles wide, and up to 800 feet deep, it is the second-largest canyon in the United States. The canyon's striking red rock formations and diverse geological features were shaped over millions of years by water and wind erosion. Visitors to Palo Duro Canyon State Park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, located in Fort Worth, Texas, is a sprawling horticultural haven spread over 120 acres. Established in 1934, it stands as the oldest major botanic garden in Texas. The garden boasts over 2,500 species of native and exotic plants, beautifully arranged in 23 distinct gardens, including a stunning Rose Garden, a tranquil Japanese Garden, and a vibrant Conservatory.
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, is a unique art installation and popular roadside attraction created in 1974 by a group of artists known as the Ant Farm. The exhibit features ten classic Cadillac cars buried nose-first into the ground at an angle, resembling the Great Pyramid of Giza. Each vehicle is covered in layers of graffiti, which visitors are encouraged to contribute to, making the display a continually evolving piece of public art.
El Capitan is a prominent peak located in the Guadalupe Mountains of West Texas. Standing at an elevation of 8,085 feet, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the state. El Capitan is part of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich geological history. The peak offers breathtaking views and serves as a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Houston Zoo, located in Houston, Texas, USA, is a renowned zoological park dedicated to the conservation, education, and care of wildlife. Established in 1922, it spans over 55 acres within Hermann Park and houses more than 6,000 animals representing over 600 species. The zoo offers a variety of exhibits and attractions, including the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat, Kipp Aquarium, and the African Forest.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is one of the largest art museums in the United States, located in Houston, Texas. It boasts an extensive collection that spans over 6,000 years of history and includes more than 70,000 works of art from cultures around the world. The museum's diverse collection covers a wide range of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and decorative arts. The MFAH campus features multiple buildings, including the Audrey Jones Beck Building, the Caroline Wiess Law Building, and the Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, each offering unique and engaging exhibitions.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, located in Dallas, Texas, is a 66-acre botanical garden situated on the shores of White Rock Lake. Renowned for its beautifully curated gardens, seasonal festivals, and educational programs, it offers a serene escape into nature year-round. Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens, including the vibrant Jonsson Color Garden, the tranquil Pecan Grove, and the picturesque Woman’s Garden. The Arboretum also features the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, which provides interactive exhibits and educational activities for children.
The Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, USA, is an iconic symbol of the state's rich history and political heritage. Completed in 1888, it stands as one of the largest state capitols in the United States, both in terms of size and architectural grandeur. The building is designed in an Italian Renaissance Revival style and constructed primarily from "Sunset Red" granite, giving it a distinctive appearance. The Texas State Capitol houses the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature and the Governor of Texas. Its impressive dome, which rises nearly 308 feet above the ground, is a notable feature that makes it taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Padre Island National Seashore, located on the coast of Texas, USA, is a protected area that encompasses over 130,000 acres of dunes, prairies, and tidal flats along 70 miles of coastline. It is the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. The seashore is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, providing a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife including sea turtles, migratory birds, and numerous marine species. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, fishing, bird-watching, and beachcombing.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park in San Antonio, Texas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves four of the five Spanish frontier missions established in the 18th century. These missions—Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada—were part of Spain's efforts to colonize, evangelize, and defend its northern New Spain territories. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the unique blend of Spanish and indigenous cultures, showcasing historic church buildings, living quarters, and farmlands.
The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) in Dallas, Texas, is a premier art institution known for its extensive and diverse collection that spans 5,000 years of history. The museum's holdings include over 24,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. Notable collections feature European paintings, modern and contemporary art, decorative arts and design, and art from the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The DMA is also recognized for its dynamic programming, including exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and educational activities, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Dallas.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a popular amusement park located in San Antonio, Texas. Known for its thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and entertaining shows, the park offers a wide variety of attractions suitable for all ages. Highlights include the Iron Rattler, a hybrid roller coaster that combines wood and steel elements, and the Superman Krypton Coaster, one of the world's tallest and fastest floorless coasters. Additionally, Six Flags Fiesta Texas features a water park called White Water Bay, which is included with park admission.
Downtown Houston, the central business district of Houston, Texas, is a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and entertainment. It features a striking skyline with iconic skyscrapers such as the JPMorgan Chase Tower and the Wells Fargo Plaza. The area is home to major corporate headquarters, world-class hotels, and a variety of dining options ranging from upscale restaurants to casual eateries. Cultural attractions abound, including the Theater District, which hosts numerous performing arts venues like the Houston Grand Opera and the Alley Theatre. For sports enthusiasts, Downtown Houston boasts the Toyota Center, home to the NBA's Houston Rockets, and Minute Maid Park, where the MLB's Houston Astros play. The district also offers green spaces such as Discovery Green, a 12-acre park that hosts events and activities year-round.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science, located in Houston, Texas, is a prominent institution dedicated to natural history and science. Founded in 1909, the museum boasts a diverse range of exhibits, including paleontology, astronomy, chemistry, and Native American culture. Key attractions include a vast collection of dinosaur fossils, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and the stunning Cockrell Butterfly Center.
The Emily Morgan Hotel, located in San Antonio, Texas, is a historic and luxurious establishment that seamlessly blends modern amenities with rich heritage. Situated near the iconic Alamo, the hotel occupies a landmark Gothic Revival building originally constructed in 1924. Known for its striking architecture, the Emily Morgan Hotel offers elegantly appointed rooms and suites, many with stunning views of the Alamo and downtown San Antonio. Guests can enjoy a range of upscale services including a fine-dining restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a full-service spa.
Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, is a premier educational and entertainment complex known for its unique pyramidal structures. The facility features three main pyramids: the Aquarium Pyramid, which houses a diverse range of marine life; the Rainforest Pyramid, offering an immersive tropical environment with exotic plants and animals; and the Discovery Pyramid, which focuses on science-oriented exhibits. In addition to these, Moody Gardens includes a 3D IMAX theater, a paddlewheel boat, and a seasonal water park.
Tower of the Americas in San Antonio, Texas, USA, is a 750-foot observation tower and restaurant that was built as the theme structure for the 1968 World's Fair, HemisFair '68. Offering panoramic views of the city, the tower features a revolving restaurant called Chart House, an observation deck, and a 4D theater ride.
Planning a trip?