Overview

Texas is a state of bold flavors, big skies, rich culture, and iconic history. Known as the Lone Star State, Texas combines Wild West heritage with modern cities, Gulf Coast beaches, desert landscapes, and world-class music and cuisine. Whether you’re exploring vibrant Austin, walking the San Antonio River Walk, or road-tripping through the Hill Country, Texas invites you to experience life on a grand scale.

  • Capital: Austin
  • Largest Cities: Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth
  • Population: ~30 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zones: Central Time (most of the state), Mountain Time (western edge)
  • Climate: Varies by region — humid in the east, dry in the west, subtropical in the south

Top Destinations in Texas

Austin

The state capital and live music capital of the world, famous for its creative culture, food trucks, and outdoor scene.

San Antonio

Home to The Alamo and the picturesque River Walk, with strong Spanish, Mexican, and Texan influences.

Houston

A diverse metropolis known for space exploration, world-class museums, and an incredible food scene.

Dallas–Fort Worth

A metroplex of cowboy culture, art, shopping, and modern entertainment.

Texas Hill Country

Rolling hills, wildflowers, wineries, and charming small towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley.

Must-See Attractions

  • The Alamo (San Antonio) – Historic site of the famous 1836 battle
  • Space Center Houston – NASA’s official visitor center and astronaut experiences
  • Big Bend National Park – Remote desert beauty along the Rio Grande
  • The State Capitol (Austin) – One of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the U.S.
  • San Antonio River Walk – Scenic, walkable waterfront lined with restaurants and shops

Things to Do

  • Catch live music in Austin’s Red River District or at SXSW
  • Float a river in New Braunfels or San Marcos
  • Eat Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex — brisket, tacos, queso, and more
  • Take a scenic drive through bluebonnet-covered Hill Country
  • Go stargazing in West Texas, one of the darkest skies in the continental U.S.

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH – Houston), Austin–Bergstrom (AUS), San Antonio (SAT), El Paso (ELP)

Transport

  • Amtrak and intercity buses connect major cities
  • Rental cars are the best option for road trips and exploring rural areas
  • Light rail and bus systems are available in Dallas, Houston, and Austin

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Mar–May): Ideal weather and blooming wildflowers
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild, especially in southern Texas
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, but great for tubing, coast trips, and festivals

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: A mix of Southern, Mexican, and barbecue traditions with a Texas twist
  • Specialties: Brisket, breakfast tacos, kolaches, chili, chicken-fried steak
  • Drinks: Texas craft beers, margaritas, sweet tea, and local whiskeys
  • Events & Festivals:
  • South by Southwest (Austin) – Music, film, and tech
  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
  • Texas State Fair (Dallas) – Deep-fried everything
  • Fiesta San Antonio – Cultural parades and celebrations
  • ACL Music Festival (Austin)

Souvenirs from Texas

  • Cowboy hats, boots, or belt buckles
  • Texas hot sauces, BBQ rubs, or salsas
  • Local wines or craft spirits
  • Texas-themed T-shirts and souvenirs
  • Bluebonnet seeds, handmade leather goods, or artisan crafts

Fun Facts

  • Texas was an independent nation from 1836 to 1845
  • It’s home to the largest state capitol building in the U.S. (by square footage)
  • The word “Texas” comes from the Caddo word meaning “friends”
  • Dr Pepper was invented in Waco, Texas, in the 1880s
  • Texas has three of the ten largest cities in the U.S. — Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Texas Cities Sampler

  • Day 1: Austin – music, tacos, and Barton Springs
  • Day 2: San Antonio – The Alamo + River Walk
  • Day 3: Houston – Space Center + Museum District

5-Day Hill Country Road Trip

  • Day 1: Austin – live music + food trucks
  • Day 2: Fredericksburg – wine tasting + wildflowers
  • Day 3: Wimberley – swimming holes + small-town charm
  • Day 4: San Antonio – culture and history
  • Day 5: Return via scenic backroads with BBQ stops

Cities in Texas

  • Austin